Chōju-giga scrolls by Toba Sōjō are also known as the “caricatured animal scrolls”. They are among Japan’s most famous artistic treasures. Attributed to Toba Sōjō (or Kakuyū), a 12th-century Buddhist monk, these scrolls are often considered the first comic books in history.
History and Attribution
Toba Sōjō, real name Kakuyū (1053–1140), was a priest and artist of the Heian period. Although his attribution to the body of work is debated, Chōju-giga is widely associated with his name. The scrolls were created in a context of strong cultural and artistic influence. During this time, nobility and monks created and collected fine works of art.
Description of the Rolls
Chōju-giga consist of four horizontally rolled rolls of paper (emaki). They illustrate anthropomorphic animals engaged in human activities. These animals include rabbits, frogs and monkeys, often depicted in a humorous and satirical manner. These drawings are made in black ink, without color, and show exceptional mastery of lines and movements.
Thematic Analysis
The scenes depicted in Chōju-giga vary, from simple everyday life to more humorous and satirical situations. Animals are often seen carrying out human activities. For example, dance, music, games, and even religious ceremonies. This anthropomorphization serves not only to entertain but also to subtly criticize the society of the time. It highlights absurdities and human flaws.
Technique and Style
The technique used in Chōju-giga is remarkable for its fluidity and dynamism. The ink strokes are light and precise, capturing quick, natural movements. This minimalist yet expressive graphic approach is one of the reasons why the scrolls are often seen as a foreshadowing of modern comics and manga.
Influence and Legacy
The Chōju-giga have had a lasting influence on Japanese art. They are often cited as the ancestors of manga. Notably, because of their narrative style and their use of sequential images to tell stories. Many later artists, both in Japan and abroad, draw inspiration from these works. Today, the Japanese keep the scrolls at Kōzan-ji Temple in Kyoto, and copies can be seen in various museums around the world.
Conclusion
The Chōju-giga scrolls by Toba Sōjō are not only a valuable piece of Japanese cultural heritage, but also a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of artists of the Heian period. Their ability to capture the essence of human life and society through humorous depictions of animals continues to fascinate. These works inspire viewers and artists centuries later.
