Gathering of the Jewels 1861

"Gathering of the Jewels" is a woodblock print by Japanese artist Nukina Kaioku, created in 1861. It depicts a serene landscape with a small house nestled in the foothills of a mountain, with trees and a bridge leading towards it. The print features a delicate use of color, with shades of blue and brown dominating the image, highlighting the natural beauty of the scene. This piece, currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, exemplifies Kaioku's signature style of capturing the tranquility of Japanese landscapes through meticulous detail and soft, harmonious colors. The work showcases the cultural significance of nature in Japanese art, where it is often presented as a refuge from the bustling city life.