(Maple Tree and Mt. Fuji) c. 1860s - 1870s

Signed Shūsen created this woodblock print titled "(Maple Tree and Mt. Fuji)". This print invites us into the serene beauty that is so often associated with traditional Japanese art. We see Mt. Fuji almost hidden behind a maple tree. The simplicity of the color palette helps create a mood of quiet contemplation. In Japanese culture, Mt. Fuji is more than just a mountain. It is a symbol of national identity and a sacred place. We might consider the impact of the Meiji Restoration on Japanese artists. It was a period of rapid modernization and cultural change. Artists had to think about how to negotiate tradition with the changing world. Prints like this one offered a connection to the past. When you look at this print, consider how Shūsen uses the image of Mt. Fuji to evoke a sense of cultural pride and continuity. Notice also the intimate scale of the print which encourages a personal and reflective experience.