Neerstrijkende ganzen te Katata 1809 - 1814

Editor: This lovely woodblock print, "Neerstrijkende ganzen te Katata," or "Geese Alighting at Katata," was created between 1809 and 1814 by Katsushika Hokusai, here in the Rijksmuseum. There's such a feeling of peace. What do you notice? Curator: Peace, yes, absolutely! It almost hums, doesn't it? I'm struck by the contrast – the stillness of the pagoda against the movement of the geese. Imagine standing there, feeling that first hint of autumn in the air. The colours, soft yet defined, give the image a dreamlike quality. Notice how the artist used line, especially to create depth… Does the formation of the geese draw you in or lead your eye towards the background? Editor: It draws me in. It feels like the eye wants to follow them, see where they are going. It makes me wonder where the artist stood when viewing this scenery. Curator: Ah, excellent question! Was Hokusai near the pagoda, or on the lake perhaps? Think of the artist almost in conversation with nature, transcribing its fleeting moments. And speaking of transcribing – have you considered the sheer skill it took to carve these intricate details into a woodblock? Editor: No, I hadn't really, but that's incredible. I am also thinking that capturing the birds in flight so elegantly using that medium is particularly clever. Curator: Precisely! Each line, each colour carefully considered, and applied with intent. To me, this isn't just a picture, it’s an invitation to quiet contemplation. What are you taking away from it? Editor: Definitely a greater appreciation for the artist's technical skill and their intentionality and deliberate choices that evoked a serene and sublime scenery. It also makes me consider perspective in the broader sense, not just visually. Curator: Beautifully said. Art, like life, is all about perspective, isn't it? A fleeting moment captured, prompting reflection long after.