Who painted Demon Intoning the Name of the Buddha?

Demon Intoning the Name of the Buddha was painted by Unknown in 1704.

Where can I see Demon Intoning the Name of the Buddha?

Demon Intoning the Name of the Buddha is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Demon Intoning the Name of the Buddha?

Demon Intoning the Name of the Buddha is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Demon Intoning the Name of the Buddha

Unknown , 1704

Demon Intoning the Name of the Buddha is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1704 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Look up more paintings from japan, edo period (1615–1868) to see how artists turned everyday life into playful art.

You see a grinning demon dressed like a wandering monk, chanting into a scroll.

These were cheap, cheerful souvenirs sold to travelers in the town of Otsu. The artist probably made dozens a day—quick brushstrokes, stenciled gold, bright colors. The joke is that even a demon can recite Buddha’s name, so anyone can find salvation.

Look up more paintings from japan, edo period (1615–1868) to see how artists turned everyday life into playful art.

Overview

Demon Intoning the Name of the Buddha is a painting exemplifying the Otsu-e genre, created for travelers on the Tokaido route between Edo and Kyoto. Characterized by vibrant colors and gold accents, these works were mass-produced as affordable souvenirs.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a demon disguised as a wandering monk, chanting the Buddha's name. This humorous scene conveys the Buddhist notion that even the most unlikely beings can seek salvation through devotion.

Technique & Style

The artwork combines woodblock printing with rapid hand-brushstrokes and stencil or manual application of color and gold pigments, reflecting the efficient, high-volume production typical of Otsu-e souvenirs.

History & Provenance

Produced during the Edo period (1615–1868), this Otsu-e painting is part of a tradition that evolved from depicting Buddhist and Shinto icons to incorporating popular Kabuki figures and parable illustrations by the later period.

Context

Originally sold in Otsu to travelers on the Tokaido, these paintings represent a blend of religious themes and everyday life, characteristic of Edo period art's tendency to infuse the mundane with playfulness.