Hawking Party Possibly 1807 - 1811

This vibrant woodblock print triptych, made by Hisanobu around the turn of the 19th century, captures a scene of elegant women enjoying an outing, with the iconic Mount Fuji gracing the horizon. The women's elaborate kimonos are adorned with floral motifs, symbols of transient beauty but also of wealth and status. These motifs echo through time, harking back to ancient textile patterns, but also forward to modern fashion, revealing the cyclical nature of cultural expression. Note how the dog adds a touch of domesticity to the scene. Canines, loyal companions, appear across cultures—from Egyptian tombs to Renaissance portraits—representing fidelity and protection. In a different key, the birds in flight evoke a sense of freedom, but also vulnerability, as they migrate in search of warmer climes. These symbols resonate with the viewer, evoking memories and emotions tied to our collective past, speaking to both our conscious and unconscious minds. This interweaving of nature, culture, and emotion is a testament to the enduring power of symbols to connect us across time.