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New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts

新形三十六怪撰

by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi1889–189236 prints

About This Series

New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts is one of Yoshitoshi's last and most accomplished series, published between 1889 and 1892. The 36 prints depict scenes from Japanese folklore, history, and literature involving ghosts, spirits, and supernatural phenomena. Despite the ghostly subject matter, many prints are surprisingly subtle and atmospheric rather than horrific, showcasing Yoshitoshi's extraordinary range as a storyteller. The series represents a summation of Japanese ghost lore rendered with consummate artistic skill.

Prints in This Series (6)

Demon in Disguise as an Old Woman Fleeing with a Severed Arm (Rōba kiwan o mochisaru zu), from the series New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts (Shinkei sanjūroku kaisen)

Demon in Disguise as an Old Woman Fleeing with a Severed Arm (Rōba kiwan o mochisaru zu), from the series New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts (Shinkei sanjūroku kaisen)

1889

Woodblock print (nishiki-e); ink, color and gauffrage on paper

Gamo Sadahide's Servant, Toki Motosada, Hurling a Demon King to the Ground at Mount Inahana, from the series "New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts (Shinkei sanjuroku kaisen)"

Gamo Sadahide's Servant, Toki Motosada, Hurling a Demon King to the Ground at Mount Inahana, from the series "New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts (Shinkei sanjuroku kaisen)"

1890

Color woodblock print

Heron Maiden from the series "New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts"

Heron Maiden from the series "New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts"

1889

Color woodblock print

Omori Hikoshichi from the series “New Forms of the Thirty-Six Ghosts”

Omori Hikoshichi from the series “New Forms of the Thirty-Six Ghosts”

1889

Color woodblock print

Oniwakamaru Observing the Great Carp in the Pond, from the series "New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts"

Oniwakamaru Observing the Great Carp in the Pond, from the series "New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts"

1889

Color woodblock print

The Old Badger from the series "New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts"

The Old Badger from the series "New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts"

1889

Color woodblock print

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts series?

New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts is one of Yoshitoshi's last and most accomplished series, published between 1889 and 1892. The 36 prints depict scenes from Japanese folklore, history, and literature involving ghosts, spirits, and supernatural phenomena. Despite the ghostly subject matter, many prints are surprisingly subtle and atmospheric rather than horrific, showcasing Yoshitoshi's extraordinary range as a storyteller. The series represents a summation of Japanese ghost lore rendered with consummate artistic skill.

How many prints are in the New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts series?

The New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts series contains 36 prints, created by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi between 1889–1892.

Who created the New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts series?

The New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts series was created by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (月岡芳年), produced between 1889–1892.

Can I see all prints from the New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts series?

We currently have 6 of 36 known prints from the New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts series indexed in our collection. Browse them all on this page.

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