Landscape with Heron and Boat c. 18th century

"Landscape with Heron and Boat" is a delicate and evocative woodblock print by the renowned Japanese artist Nishimura Shigenaga, dating back to the 18th century. This small but impactful work, now housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, depicts a serene landscape with a heron perched on a branch, its elegant form contrasting with the gently flowing water and the overturned boat at the bottom of the print. Shigenaga was known for his mastery of depicting the natural world, and this print exemplifies his ability to capture the quiet beauty of a rural setting. The artist's precise lines and muted palette create a sense of tranquility and harmony, making this a treasured example of ukiyo-e, the genre of Japanese woodblock prints that flourished during the Edo period.