Emperor Yu (Great Yu) Warning Against Drinking to Prevent Calamities
| Establishment | Kyoto Imperial Palace |
|---|---|
| Building | Otsunegoten |
| Room | Chudan-no-ma |
| Asset Type | Fusuma & Wall Paintings |
| Author | Tsurusawa Tanshin |
| Period | Ansei Era |
| Production date | 1855 |
| Size | H1.89m×W0.93m |
| Material | Color, gold-leafed clouds and mist, powdered gold leaf on paper |
| Format | Sliding-door panel |
| Original/Copy | Original |
During the Xia dynasty in ancient China, Emperor Yu (Great Yu) received a gift of exquisitely brewed liquor from a man named Yi Di. Although alcohol was considered essential for rituals and banquets, Yu believed that excessive drinking would inevitably lead to disease and ultimately bring ruin to the nation. Therefore, he chose to prohibit alcohol and distanced himself from Yi Di. This story is depicted in the artwork, showing the moment when Yu and Yi Di meet. The figure seated on the throne is believed to be Emperor Yu, while the man standing on the steps holding a wine jar is thought to be Yi Di.
