Kohala Koheiji

Katsushika Hokusai's 'Kohada Koheiji' captures a chilling moment from Japanese folklore, rendered in the distinctive Ukiyo-e woodblock print style of the Edo period. The piece depicts a vengeful ghost peering through bamboo blinds, its hollow eyes and grotesque expression embodying the Japanese concept of 'yurei' - spirits who remain earthbound due to unresolved grievances.

The artwork showcases Hokusai's masterful control of line and space, particularly in the ghost's translucent form and the delicate rendering of the bamboo blinds. The limited colour palette, typical of period woodblock prints, creates a stark contrast that heightens the supernatural atmosphere. The composition draws viewers' eyes directly to the ghost's unsettling gaze, while the surrounding elements suggest a traditional Japanese interior setting.

Created during Japan's period of isolation, this piece reflects the era's rich storytelling tradition and the population's fascination with ghost stories, particularly during summer months when such tales were told to invoke chills. Hokusai, better known for his landscapes and '36 Views of Mount Fuji' series, demonstrated his versatility through works like this, which blend supernatural elements with everyday scenes. The story of Kohada Koheiji - a murdered man who returns to haunt his unfaithful wife and her lover - resonated deeply with Edo-period audiences and continues to influence Japanese horror aesthetics today.

The technical precision required for this woodblock print is particularly evident in the ghost's semi-transparent appearance, achieved through careful carving and multiple printing stages. This piece exemplifies how Hokusai could transform traditional Japanese ghost story elements into visually striking artwork that still captivates viewers centuries later.