Issun Boshi (One-Inch Boy)

 Issun Boshi (One-Inch Boy): A Japanese Folktale retold by Nadia Higgens. Created for FolkTale Week 2020 (Click to enlarge)

Theme: Courtship

Oil and chalk pastel on paper

Issun Boshi is about a boy who was only one inch tall. Although he was small, his mind grew with curiosity, bravery and passion for the world. His swordsmanship earned his place at the Emperor's Palace. "Soon he became a trusted servant in the Emperor's house. Princess Sanjo especially relied on him. For only he could paint patterns fine enough on the combs she wore in her hair. Only he could find her smallest earrings when they rolled under the dresser. And it was he who sat upon her shoulder all day long and kept her company."

One day Issun Boshi and the Princess were returning from the Cherry Blossom Festival when an evil One (Ogre) blocked their path. With courage, a lot of gore and magic, Issun Boshi defeated the One and grew. He and the Princess were married, for at last Issun Boshi's outward appearance matched his inner talents.

For this piece, I researched the historical clothing of Japan, and settled on using fashion of the Heian Period (794 - 1185). Princess Sanjo has a simplified juunihitoe, or 'twelve layered robe', worn by the highest-ranked ladies of the Imperial Court. But Issun Boshi is wearing a common workman's hitatare to symbolize his humble beginnings and servant's heart.

I found this folktale as an ebook from the LA Public Library.

Here is a costume reference with lovely photos https://owlcation.com/humanities/History-of-Kimono-Part-2-Nara-and-Heian-Periods