Tenma Bridge in Settsu Province c. 1834

Katsushika Hokusai created this woodblock print, “Tenma Bridge in Settsu Province,” to capture a lively scene in 19th century Japan. During this Edo period, urban culture thrived, and Hokusai, who embraced the life of a commoner, often depicted everyday life. Here, we see a bustling bridge adorned with red flags, teeming with figures cloaked in blue, likely merchants or travelers on their way to Osaka. The boats below, similarly filled with people, suggest a vibrant exchange between different social spheres. Hokusai masterfully uses color and composition to convey a sense of movement and energy. It's worth noting that woodblock prints like these were not simply artistic expressions but also commodities, affordable to a wide audience. This piece invites us to consider the intersection of art, commerce, and identity in a rapidly changing society. As you take in the artwork, reflect on the stories and histories embedded within it.