18th century, East Asia, fooleum, historical figure, Japan, painting, primary source
This is a personal favourite among many depictions available of Dongfang Shuo 東方朔 (c. 160 – c. 93 BCE), although it was created nearly 2,000 years after he lived. By an 18th-19th century Japanese artist, Torei Hijikata 土方稲嶺 (1741-1807), it conveys the energy...
15th century, East Asia, historical figure, India, Japan, primary source, quotes, stories
Jesters and jester types were regularly rewarded by the king or other head honcho for their services. In addition to accounts of such gifts and perks, there is a sub-set of stories showing the fool using some humorous wheeze to squeeze a bit extra from the royal...
