Momotaro and friends
(c. 1905)
Medium
ink and colour on silk, silk, casein plastic
Measurements
(109.8 × 41.0 cm) (image)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased with funds donated by Cecilie Hall, 2025
Gallery location
Not on display
About this work
Momotaro (Peach Boy) is one of Japan’s most popular folk stories, and the title character is regarded as a model of bravery and filial piety for boys. One day, a childless couple found a big peach, and when they cut it open a boy appeared. They named him Momotaro and raised him with care. As he grew up, Momotaro decided to set out on a journey to defeat demons that had been tormenting his village. On his journey he shared his special kibi dango provisions with a dog, a monkey and a pheasant who became his loyal friends. Momotaro successfully defeated the demons and returned to his village a hero.