The Fox Mother's Farewell: Kuzunoha's Revelation to Young Abe no Seimei
- Re.JapBook
- Jan 31
- 1 min read
From Tsukioka Yoshitoshi's "New Forms of Thirty-six Ghosts" Series
The Fateful Meeting
This poignant print illustrates the tale of Kuzunoha, a white fox who transformed into a beautiful woman after being saved by Abe no Yasuna in the Shinoda Forest. Their encounter occurred when Yasuna protected her from hunters, suffering injuries in the process. In gratitude, she nursed him back to health in human form.
The Hidden Identity
Their relationship blossomed into marriage, and they had a son named Dōji-maru (who would later become the legendary onmyōji Abe no Seimei). For five years, they lived in happiness until Kuzunoha's true nature as a fox was accidentally revealed.
The Heartbreaking Departure
Yoshitoshi captures the emotional moment of separation, as Kuzunoha prepares to return to Shinoda Forest. Before departing, she left a poignant poem on the sliding door:
"If you love me, come and seek meIn Izumi's Shinoda ForestWhere the kuzu leaves grow"
The Mother's Legacy
This touching scene shows young Dōji-maru clinging to his mother as she reveals her true form. The supernatural heritage passed from mother to son would later manifest in Seimei's extraordinary powers as Japan's greatest onmyōji (master of divination and occult arts).
Artistic Interpretation
Yoshitoshi masterfully conveys the emotional complexity of this scene, capturing both the supernatural transformation and the profound human emotions of maternal love and sacrifice.
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