Analisis Bentuk Ilustrasi Amabie pada Zaman Edo, dan di Masa Pandemi Covid-19

Abstract

This study analyzes illustrations of a Japanese mythological creature called Amabie. Amabie is a mythological creature born during the Edo period, which appeared in the sea of Kumamoto Prefecture, and is believed by the Japanese people to ward off plague. Amabie became famous again during the Covid-19 pandemic that hit Japan. The reason for this research is the development of Amabie illustrations made by several famous Japanese artists. The aim of this research is to describe the shape of Amabie during the Edo period and a description of the shape of Amabie during the Covid-19 pandemic which was designed by Japanese artists. This study uses qualitative methods, data collection techniques by applying literature study for data analysis techniques. The results of the research show a change in the form of Amabie illustrations, which at the beginning of their appearance in the Edo period were depicted as a mermaid figure written in a letter of intent in black ink to become a form of painting illustration during the Covid-19 pandemic in the form of statues, cakes, Amabie darumas, Amabie Kumamon, also appeared in Noh Drama. These shapes have their own meaning according to the artist's imagination in conveying the message that Amabie is a symbol of strength in facing the pandemic and hope that it will end soon.