Goldfish Vendor c. 19th century

print, ink, color-on-paper

water colours

pastel soft colours

print

japan

handmade artwork painting

personal sketchbook

ink

color-on-paper

wedding around the world

coloured pencil

traditional art medium

watercolour bleed

watercolour illustration

watercolor

"Goldfish Vendor" is a woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai, one of the most celebrated Japanese artists, created sometime in the 19th century. The print depicts a vendor selling goldfish, a popular pastime in Edo-era Japan, amidst a lush landscape. Hokusai, known for his dynamic compositions and vivid colors, captures the beauty and bustle of everyday life. This particular print, like many of Hokusai's works, is a fascinating glimpse into the cultural life of 19th-century Japan.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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In addition to his commercial woodblock designs for mass consumption, Hokusai made a large number of surimono, or deluxe prints for private clients. This print was once part of an announcement, program, or poetry compilation, but the accompanying information that might have identified the purpose has been trimmed away. The scene shows a goldfish vendor by her tank under the trees. The Japanese first imported goldfish from China in the 16th century, fascinated by their novelty and shimmering colors. By the early 19th century, goldfish had become affordable pets for ordinary citizens. Every summer, they were a popular commodity because, psychologically at least, viewing fish swimming in delicate glass bowls tempered the heat. In this print, a little boy excitedly holds up a glass container, perhaps pleading with his mother to buy a goldfish.