Samurai Skeleton Shamisen player In Top hat - [Yokai]

Samurai Skeleton Shamisen player In Top hat - [Yokai]

•About this Yokai:

In comparison to my other Yokai, This skeleton might feel a bit out of place (perhaps like a bit of a time traveller) - but did you know that top hats have existed since the 1790’s? feels weird right? - They became a bit more stylish again later on in the 1830s – perhaps the very last thing you’d think of when you think “Edo Period Japan.”

This piece was inspired by inspired by: the demon painter: Kawanabe Kyosai’s “Skeleton Shamisen Player in Top Hat With Dancing Monster” (1880's) - I drew this one in tribute, as the day i completed it was also their 189th Birthday! – [Born May 18th 1831] - Kawanabe Kyosai aka “The Drunken Demon Painter” is one of my favourite late Edo period yokai artists, mostly known for being able to paint a huge wall scroll in just under 4 hours, but his Impressive amount of Energetic skeleton themed art in particular where a few of my favourites to study growing up.

There’s probably some sort of pointed political commentary behind the original picture, as obviously these clothes where not very common in japan at the time. (but sadly i actually cant find any information about this piece in particular.. if you happen know more let me know!) - Regardless: A Skeleton wearing a tophat, playing samisen (& weilding a katana,) is such an incredibly bad-ass concept... so, of course naturally i had to draw my take on it.

Sticker Art by @Samkalensky (yo thats me!) - Part of my Night parade of 100 Demons - Yokai & Japanese folklore sticker collection, weather-resistant 4" Glossy sticker. Check my shop & follow @samkalensky for many more!