The Fuji from Gotenyama at Shinagawa on the Tokaido 

The Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) is best known for his iconic print The Great Wave off Kanagawa (1831). Hokusai was active during the Edo period, of 1600 to 1868. He specialised in traditional ukiyo-e prints depicting everyday subjects. This print, The Fuji from Gotenyama at Shinagawa on the Tokaido (1832), comes from the same series as The Great Wave. It depicts a colourful landscape of delicate cherry blossoms, which traditionally symbolise optimism and beauty. The gentle pastel pink shade of the flowers compliments the vibrant blue skyline. 🌸 Unlike the simplicity of other prints in the series, The Fuji from Gotenyama is remarkably detailed. Zoom in to see the crowd of people as they relax at picnic spots nestled amongst the cherry trees. They chat and wave fans as they queue for the stalls serving refreshments. Gotenyama, which translates to Palace Hill, was a popular daytrip destination in the nineteenth century. This print captures the bustling atmosphere of the site, with its majestic views over the ocean. In the background, the famous Mount Fuji stands proudly as clouds roll across the scene. ☁️ As is typical of the ukiyo-e genre, this print idealises an aspect of everyday life. The juxtaposition between the serene landscape and the busy crowd lends the print a pleasant atmosphere, suggesting that nature exists in harmony with the people. What do you think of this print? How does it compare to the iconic image of The Great Wave? 💬🌊 Editor: Lucy Jude Grantham