Daily Sketches for Exorcism and Longevity

Katsushika Hokusai

Edo period 1842–43

Ink on paper

Kyushu National Museum

A mythical creature, possibly a dragon or lion, is depicted in ink on paper, appearing to move through clouds. The creature has sharp claws and a swirling mane or tail. A mythical creature, possibly a dragon or lion, is depicted in ink on paper, appearing to move through clouds. The creature has sharp claws and a swirling mane or tail. The Daily Sketches for Longevity and Exorcism depict lions in various forms, as well as lion dancers. Katsushika Hokusai created this series of daily sketches at age 84–85, when he resided in Obuse, Shinshu (present-day Nagano Prefecture). They were painted not for a commission, but rather as a wish for his own longevity. Several sheets from this series are known to exist in both domestic and overseas collections. However, the pieces donated to Kyushu National Museum