Topic: Edo Prints

Japanese mythology is examined through the lens of Scaphology, specifically the Utsunofune or "hollow ship" depicted in Edo-period prints as circular flying vessels. Sabac explains that the Japanese imperial lineage traces back to Rujin, or dragon men, and that Shinto shrines often venerate these angelic boats. He uses the term "polymorphic symbolism" to describe how single words in Japanese can represent both hollow trees and celestial ships.