An Unfortunate Tale, III

Many of the artists who designed ukiyo-e prints during the Edo period (1615-1868) also painted pictures. These paintings were not meant to be used as designs for prints, as these were generally based on much freer sketches. Instead, they were individual works, purchased by a wealthier clientele.

This is the third of three paintings held by the V&A depicting scenes from a popular story called 'An Unfortunate Tale'. Kyôsai, one of Japan's most prolific artists, follows the sad plight of a woman.

The first work in this series shows a woman being kicked out by a man with pipe (museum no. D.1385-1897). In the second, she is shown weeping on a mound (museum no. D.1386-1897). In this, the third image in the series, the woman suffers merciless bullying from a group of children. They in turn are scolded by an old man, while a bypasser looks on.