Boating on Sumida river c. 1815 - 1820

Katsushika Hokusai made this woodblock print of boats on the Sumida River, though we can't say precisely when. It offers a snapshot into the leisure activities of the merchant classes in the Edo period. The Sumida River was a vital artery for transportation and commerce in Edo, modern-day Tokyo. The image shows pleasure boats, complete with lanterns, bonsai and what look like catering staff. Floating restaurants and theaters were common, reflecting the rising affluence and cultural vibrancy of the merchant class. They sought entertainment and ways to display their wealth, despite sumptuary laws imposed by the ruling shogunate intended to curb their extravagance. This print invites us to consider the complex interplay between economic prosperity, social control, and artistic expression in Edo-period Japan. Further exploration of Edo-period literature, government records, and studies of ukiyo-e prints will deepen our understanding of this image. By looking at the society, we can understand the message of the art.