The Spirit of the Cherry Tree: A Tale of Love and Vengeance

From Tsukioka Yoshitoshi's "New Forms of Thirty-six Ghosts" Series

The Theatrical Origins

This haunting print illustrates a pivotal scene from "Tsumoru Koi Yuki no Sekino To," a complex kabuki drama that interweaves supernatural elements with human passion. The story centers around a magnificent cherry tree that mysteriously blooms in winter near the Osaka Barrier.

The Supernatural Transformation

The print captures the moment when Sumizome, a courtesan, reveals her true identity as the spirit of the Komachi Cherry Tree. This transformation occurs during her confrontation with Kuronushi, a treacherous official plotting to seize power, who attempts to cut down the sacred tree for his evil rituals.

The Tale of Vengeance

The spirit's appearance is driven by a deeply personal vendetta: Kuronushi had previously murdered her mortal lover, Yasusada, brother of the monk Munesada. The cherry tree spirit, having taken human form as the courtesan Sumizome, seeks retribution for this cruel act while protecting the sacred tree from destruction.

Artistic Interpretation

Yoshitoshi masterfully depicts this dramatic revelation, showing the moment when the beautiful courtesan transforms into the supernatural guardian of the cherry tree. The scene exemplifies the complex interweaving of human emotions, supernatural power, and sacred nature that characterizes Japanese ghost stories.

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