Takaya Miou
Brilliance, p. 7
Japan, 2000

Drawing (genga), ink and screen-tone on Kent paper
Collection of the artist (L.2016-16.34–35)
© Takaya Miou, 2000

The following is an English translation of the Japanese text that appears in the published form of these pages.

“I feel that these wounds of mine are beautiful,” consort Hai mused to herself. “However, to see him smile, I will do the Emperor’s bidding and send myself to the Realm of the Living.”
“Leaving for the Realm of the Living” essentially meant death, but firm in her conviction, the consort dispatched herself.