Hotei and Two Children on a Boat c. 18th century

Okumura Masanobu's "Hotei and Two Children on a Boat" is a black and white woodblock print depicting the Japanese deity of happiness, Hotei, in a boat with two children. It is a classic example of ukiyo-e, a style of Japanese art that flourished in the Edo period (1603–1868) and often depicted scenes of everyday life. The print’s detailed lines and dynamic composition create a sense of movement and vibrancy, characteristic of ukiyo-e works. The depiction of Hotei, often associated with good fortune and abundance, adds a layer of symbolism and cultural significance to this captivating print.