Utagawa Kuniyoshi “Takiyasha and the Skeleton Spectre” 3D Ukiyo-e Layered Card

A message card that transforms one of Japan’s most dramatic ukiyo-e masterpieces into a small paper diorama.

Three beautifully detailed cards are placed one behind another to create a striking sense of depth. Delicate laser-cut openings bring the scene to life, with the enormous skeleton appearing to reach forward through the ruined palace. The skeleton’s wrist and elbow can also be gently folded, allowing its hand to extend over the front layer.

A writing area is included on one of the cards, and the set comes with an envelope. Send it as a memorable message card, or assemble it and display it as a miniature work of Japanese art.

Designed by Japanese artist and designer Keisuke Unosawa.

About the Artwork

Sōma no Furudairi was created by the ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi around 1845 to 1846.

The scene depicts Princess Takiyasha, the daughter of the defeated warrior Taira no Masakado, hiding in the ruins of her family’s palace at Sōma. Determined to continue her father’s cause, she uses magic to summon supernatural allies.

When the warrior Ōya no Tarō Mitsukuni arrives to confront her, Takiyasha calls forth a terrifying skeleton spectre. In the original story, many skeletons appear, but Kuniyoshi reimagined them as one enormous skeleton, creating the bold and unforgettable composition seen in this artwork.