Sarudahiko is inspired by the Utagawa Hiroshige ukiyo-e print Twilight at Numazu from the 53 Stations of the Tokaido. In this print, two travelers walk down the road, one of them carrying a large head or mask representing the god of the road, Sarudahiko. It may have been humorous for Hiroshige to have the travelers carrying the likeness of Sarudahiko like a small child on their back, physically incapable of completing the journey without help. Or perhaps this god has grown elderly, and his power in the world of men is waning. In this way he suffers the indignities that are found in the desires of men. An icon to be held up for entertainment or redemption for only a few coins as it travels from town to town. In 19th and 20th century America, traveling ministries would undertake this journey, traveling with the son of god on his cross and the book that told his tale. Wandering saviors who abandoned the book to annoint themselves as the true salvation. Denouncing idolatry while becoming idols themselves. Wearing the head of god as they travel down the road.
