The Laughing Hannya (Warai-hannya) | Katsushika Hokusai | 1830

The Laughing Hannya (Warai-hannya) by Katsushika Hokusai, created around 1830, is a haunting yet strangely humorous take on one of Japan’s most iconic folkloric figures. The Hannya—traditionally depicted as a vengeful female demon consumed by jealousy—is here reimagined with a grotesque grin, blurring the boundary between menace and mockery. Rendered with Hokusai’s masterful linework and expressive detail, the demon’s exaggerated features—bulging eyes, twisted horns, and a wide, unsettling smile—evoke both fear and absurdity. This ambiguous emotional tone reflects the Edo period's fascination with supernatural tales and the complex psychology behind traditional Noh theater masks. In giving the Hannya a laugh, Hokusai may be undermining her power, transforming a symbol of rage into one of eerie comedy, or perhaps commenting on the fine line between madness and amusement. The print remains a striking example of Hokusai’s ability to blend folklore, psychology, and visual innovation.