Asahina Saburo and the crocodiles Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861)

The triptych presents a dramatic narrative unfolding within a turbulent seascape. The composition is dominated by colossal reptilian forms – likely crocodiles – engaging in a violent struggle with a human figure. The color palette leans heavily on blues and whites for the water, contrasted against the reddish-orange hues of the sky and the darker tones of the creatures themselves.
The leftmost panel depicts the initial confrontation. A man, clad in traditional garments, is being seized by a massive crocodile emerging from the churning waves. His posture conveys both surprise and resistance; his arms are raised defensively while his body leans away from the creature’s grasp. The wave cresting behind him amplifies the sense of chaos and imminent danger.
The central panel intensifies the conflict. Here, the man is fully engulfed by another crocodile, its jaws agape in a menacing display. The composition emphasizes the scale disparity between human and beast; the reptiles size dwarfs the figure, highlighting his vulnerability. The swirling water further contributes to the feeling of overwhelming force.
The rightmost panel offers a momentary respite from the immediate struggle. While the waves continue their relentless motion, the man appears to have momentarily escaped the crocodiles’ grasp, standing on what seems to be a small island or rocky outcrop. In the distance, a mountain rises above the horizon line, its presence suggesting both permanence and isolation. A block of Japanese text occupies the upper right corner, likely providing narrative context or commentary on the scene.
Beyond the literal depiction of a man battling crocodiles, the work appears to explore themes of human resilience against overwhelming odds. The turbulent sea can be interpreted as a metaphor for life’s challenges, while the crocodiles represent formidable obstacles. The mountain in the distance might symbolize hope, endurance, or perhaps an unattainable goal. The artists skillful use of perspective and dynamic lines creates a sense of movement and drama, drawing the viewer into the heart of this perilous encounter. The overall effect is one of both awe-inspiring spectacle and poignant vulnerability.