Poem by Kanke c. 1835 - 1836
katsushikahokusai
minneapolisinstituteofart
print, ink, woodblock-print
asian-art
ukiyo-e
ink
woodblock-print
This woodblock print, titled "Poem by Kanke," is a beautiful example of ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art popular during the Edo period (1603-1868). Created by the renowned artist Katsushika Hokusai in c. 1835–36, the work depicts a lavish palanquin being carried by attendants through a landscape. The vibrant colors and intricate details, including the patterned fabrics and the delicate brushstrokes, are characteristic of Hokusai's style. The artist masterfully captures the movement of the palanquin and the energy of the figures. The image evokes the richness and sophistication of Edo-period Japan. "Poem by Kanke" is a stunning piece of art that showcases Hokusai's genius and the beauty of ukiyo-e.
Comments
In this picture Hokusai creatively conflated two events associated with the great statesman and poet Sugawara Michizane (844-903), also known as Kan Ke. Once, when traveling in autumn with emperor Uda they stopped at a Shinto shrine renowned for its maple trees. Etiquette prevented Michizane from making an offering at the same time as the emperor, so he composed the poem recorded here in the square box in the upper left corner of the print: At the present time,since no offering could I bringBehold Mt Tamuke-a brocade of red leavesfor the pleasure of the gods. Later in life, Michizane was slandered at court and sent into exile where he died. His loyality to the emperor, however, never wavered. According to legend, the faithful ox that pulled his funeral cart was overcome with sadness, stopped en route, and refused to go on. The site became Michizane's final resting-place. Here, Hokusai's image is ambiguous, referring both to Michizane's joyful excursion with the emperor and to his demise.
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