Eastern Genji- The Garden in Snow Possibly 1854

Utagawa Hiroshige’s woodblock print shows a garden in the snow. The scene depicts a serene landscape, inviting us to consider its cultural and institutional context in Edo-period Japan. Hiroshige's skillful use of color and composition creates a sense of depth and tranquility. The print reflects the Japanese aesthetic values of harmony with nature and the appreciation of ephemeral beauty. During this time, gardens served as spaces for contemplation and social gatherings, reflecting the values of the elite. Also, the Tokugawa Shogunate, the ruling military government, implemented policies that influenced the economy, social structure, and cultural expression. By examining historical records and cultural studies, we can better understand how the print reflects and comments on the social structures of its time. Art is contingent on its social and institutional context.