Fukagawa; Timberyard 1856

This woodblock print, Fukagawa Timberyard, was made by Utagawa Hiroshige. The print depicts a winter evening scene. The landscape is dotted with symbols that evoke a sense of continuity. Notice the prominent umbrella at the bottom, a motif deeply embedded in cultural memory. The umbrella is not just a practical item but also a symbol of protection and shelter found across different cultures. It has its roots in ancient rituals associated with royalty. In ancient Egypt, a parasol shielded the pharaoh from the sun. Later, similar objects came to symbolize divine protection and authority. The night scene here reminds us that symbols evolve. The use of a specific symbol like the umbrella engages us on a subconscious level and provides a deep emotional experience. Just as the umbrella has transitioned from a symbol of divine right to a mundane object. Hiroshige makes us consider the cyclical nature of symbols.