Choju jinbutsu giga, a set of four scrolls from the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, is one of Japan’s most celebrated works of art. These black-and-white drawings of animals engaging in human activities have been hugely influential. There is no explanatory text, the artist is unknown, and parts are missing. Some attribute the work to the artist and priest Toba Sojo (1053–1140), but there is no definitive proof.
Toba Sojo
A monk (1053-1140) in the late Heian Era. He is a high priest who served as the chief of Onjoji Temple and the head of Tendai sect. He is said to have been an expert on painting.
Scroll One,
Ko:
The first scroll depicts various creatures bathing, preparing food, and attending a Buddhist memorial service. The animals include rabbits, frogs, and foxes. Notable scenes include a rabbit and a frog chasing a monkey, and a rabbit riding on a deer. A reproduction of this scroll is displayed at Sekisuiin, in the grounds of Kosanji Temple.
Ko
Scroll Two,
Otsu:
These scenes combine domestic animals including cows, chickens, and dogs; mythical creatures such as dragons and chimeras; and animals not native to Japan, including elephants and leopards.
Otsu
Scroll Three,
Hei:
The first half of this scroll includes caricatures of people. The rest depicts animals engaging in human activities. One scene shows frogs and monkeys pulling an oxcart.
Hei
Scroll Four,
Tei:
This piece features satirical drawings of humans gambling, competing, and visiting the court of the emperor.
Tei
