Yotsuya Ghost Story (Yotsuya Kaidan): A woodblock print by Yoshitoshi ("36 Ghosts" series) of a scene from the Kabuki play by Tsuruya Nanboku IV, first performed in 1825. This image might be thought of as prelude to the play. Oiwa, the beautiful wife of a masterless samurai named Iemon (or Iyemon), lies on a futon nursing her infant son in the summer heat. Oiwa has never quite recovered from childbirth and so is something of an invalid. Her husband has been reduced to make a living by producing oilpaper umbrellas and is deeply resentful of the fact that in her weakened condition she cannot help support the family. The stage is set for temptation in the form of a neighbor who is a rich doctor. This neighbor has a granddaughter who has fallen in love with Iemon and wants to marry him. The temptation of a rich wife is too much for Iemon, and he agrees to accept some "medicine" to give Oiwa which will supposedly strengthen her, but actually is meant to poison her.

What elements in this image introduce a hint of supernatural dread into an apparently idyllic scene of a mother and child?