Women Carrying Pots for the Tsukuma Festival 1880 - 1883

This Japanese hanging scroll, made by Katsushika Hokusai, is painted with ink and color on silk. Its traditional format invites us to consider the cultural context of its production. The silk support, carefully prepared and mounted, provides a smooth surface for the artist's delicate brushwork. Notice how the ink washes create subtle gradations of tone, while the vibrant colors bring the figures to life. The choice of silk as a ground speaks to the social status of the intended owner. The work depicts women carrying vessels for the Tsukuma Festival, alluding to labor and community participation. Hokusai, while celebrated as an artist, was also deeply engaged with the everyday life of the Japanese people. The act of painting itself, with its emphasis on skill and precision, reflects a long tradition of artistic practice and social commentary. By examining the materials, processes, and context of this artwork, we gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural significance and the artistic vision of Hokusai.