The Yellow Jar: Two Tales from Japanese
Tradition
By Patrick Atangan
Published by NBM Publishing
Given how naturally the artistic style of Japanese print-making lends itself to visual storytelling, it's surprising that it isn't more widespread. I'm sure there are other examples, but off the top of my head the only one that comes to mind is B. Krigstein's adaption of Ray Bradbury's "The Flying Machine," and that, of course, was nearly half a century ago (available for purchase in a downloadable e-book format, by the way, right here).
I'd like to think Krigstein would be impressed by the visual elegance creator Patrick Atangan brings to The Yellow Jar; there's an appealing spaciousness to the artwork that definitely recalls Krigstein's stylization, but there's a density to the imagery that brings to mind, of all people, Chris Ware. Panels are filled with detail, but its organized and simplified in an attractive -- but not overly reductive -- manner. See for example panel 1 of page 16, where Nikotuchi is at sea in a tiny boat. Just a few lines suggest the strength of the ocean current, as the subtle colours imply the bitter cold of the water.
Of the two stories, "The Yellow Jar" is the more complex and rewarding, a parable about trust, betrayal and reconciliation. In it, Nikotuchi marries the beautiful O Haru San, but has to deceive her to win her hand -- a deception that comes back to shatter their happiness. The fairy-tale storytelling includes such conceits as talking animals and crying a genuine river of tears, but at the heart of the tale is a strong message that anyone who's ever tested the bounds of a relationship will find meaningful.
"Two Chrysanthemum Maidens" is a shorter tale (which an absolutely stunning opening series of panels) that seems to be about overcoming categorization and dismissal. This story, which closes the book, struck me as a bit more zen in its approach but a worthwhile companion and visually stunning.
The chief appeal of this book is in its visuals. The gifted artist P. Craig Russell -- who knows much about creating fine art in this medium -- calls it "A stellar piece of work" in his informative introduction, and I wouldn't argue. The Yellow Jar definitely stretches the boundaries of the medium and challenges future creators to follow up on the precedent it sets. Grade: 4.5/5