Iris and Arrowhead 1834

Yamamatsu's ‘Iris and Arrowhead’ is a woodblock print, an uchiwa-e, a design for a rigid fan. It delicately balances naturalism and stylized form. Uchiwa-e prints like this one were popular in Japan, serving not just aesthetic purposes but practical ones, offering relief from the summer heat. They are closely connected to Japanese customs and seasonal changes. This print reflects Japan's deep reverence for nature and its integration into daily life. Notice how the plants are not just botanically accurate, but they are arranged to evoke emotion and mood, expressing peace and tranquility through their balanced composition. The iris, with its sword-like leaves, symbolizes protection and purification, while the arrowhead plant represents victory and good fortune. Such prints, with their refined aesthetics, were accessible to a wide audience and mirror the culture and values of the time. The print invites contemplation, offering a gentle reminder of the beauty and symbolism embedded in the natural world.