Matriarchal Japan Painting

Inspired by matriarchy in ancient Japan The Kojiki and Nihongi are the two Japanese written records that first documented Japanese attitudes towards women. According to these documents, a feminine presence was respected and worshipped in ancient Japan. The Nihongi sheds light on the birth of Shinto through the story of Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess. Amaterasu, is portrayed as the epitome of perfection in the Shinto religion exemplifying intelligence, beauty, fertility, and purity. This mythology based on femininity, created a “matriarchal antiquity” in Japan. Chinese records dating back to the first century reveal that women were not only allowed to rule, but also encouraged to rule. This was due to the expectation that female rule brings peace and regulation to the country. According to Chizuko T Allen, a historian at the University of Michigan, female chieftains were often found buried with their weapons in Western Japan in the fourth century. These women were buried alongside iron weapons and tools, and were competent political, military and religious leaders, according to Allen. Male chieftains, similarly buried, began appearing only in the 5th century. Routledge, citing his book, "Gender in World History" says: "Peter N. Stearns and other historians have speculated as to whether or not agricultural Japan was a matriarchy prior to contact with patriarchal China". According to Stearns, it was the influence of China that led Japan to adopt patriarchy. Later the Meiji regime then adopted elements of the Prussian constitution that forbade women from ascending the throne.

Painting:Acrylic on Wood

Original:One-of-a-kind Artwork

Size:9 W x 12 H x 0.5 D in

Delivery Time:Typically 5-7 business days for domestic shipments, 10-14 business days for international shipments.