Utagawa Hiroshige, one of the last great ukiyo-eUkiyo-e, meaning "pictures of the floating world," is a genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th to the 19th century. These woodblock prints and paintings capture the vibrant urban culture of Edo-period Japan, depicting everything from beautiful women to dramatic landscapes. Origins and Development • Period: Emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868) • City of Origin: Edo (modern artists, created works that captured the essence of Edo-period Japan. Known for his landscapes and vibrant prints, Hiroshige’s influence extends beyond his time, reaching artists and art enthusiasts worldwide.
Early Life and Training
- Born: 1797 in Edo (modern Tokyo)
- Family: Son of a low-ranking samurai and fire warden
- Initial Training: Studied under Utagawa Toyohiro, a respected ukiyo-eUkiyo-e, meaning "pictures of the floating world," is a genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th to the 19th century. These woodblock prints and paintings capture the vibrant urban culture of Edo-period Japan, depicting everything from beautiful women to dramatic landscapes. Origins and Development • Period: Emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868) • City of Origin: Edo (modern artist
Hiroshige’s early works focused on traditional subjects like actors and beautiful women. However, his passion for landscapes soon became evident, setting him apart from his contemporaries.
The Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō
One of Hiroshige’s most celebrated series, “The Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō,” showcases his skill in depicting natural beauty and human activity along the Tōkaidō road.
- Series: Published in 1833-1834
- Inspiration: Hiroshige’s own journey along the Tōkaidō road
- Content: 55 prints, each representing a station on the route
These prints illustrate various scenes, from bustling post towns to serene landscapes, offering a glimpse into the life and environment of Edo-period Japan.
Style and Technique
Hiroshige’s style is characterized by:
- Bold Compositions: Dynamic use of space and perspective
- Vivid Colors: Mastery of color printing techniques
- Atmospheric Effects: Use of weather and seasonal changes to enhance mood
His ability to capture fleeting moments with precision and beauty made his work stand out.
Influence and Legacy
Hiroshige’s work had a profound impact on both Japanese and Western art.
- Japanese Art: Influenced younger ukiyo-eUkiyo-e, meaning "pictures of the floating world," is a genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th to the 19th century. These woodblock prints and paintings capture the vibrant urban culture of Edo-period Japan, depicting everything from beautiful women to dramatic landscapes. Origins and Development • Period: Emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868) • City of Origin: Edo (modern artists and contributed to the genre’s evolution
- Western Art: Inspired Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists like Vincent van GoghVincent van Gogh (1853 – 1890) is one of the renowned Post-Impressionist artists, best known for his striking use of colour, emphatic brushwork, and contoured forms. As a son of a pastor, the Dutch artist war brought up in a religious and cultured atmosphere. After working unsuccessfully as a clerk at a bookstore, as a salesman, and as a preacher and Claude MonetFrench painter Claude Monet (1840 – 1926) was a key figure of the impressionist movement which started in the second half of the 19th century. During his long career, Monet focused on depicting leisure activities and plein air landscape painting. Born in Paris, his family moved to Le Havre in Normandy when Claude was 5 years old. From early on,
Hiroshige’s influence can be seen in the works of these artists, who admired his use of color and composition.
Later Works and Death
In his later years, Hiroshige continued to produce remarkable series, including:
- One Hundred Famous Views of Edo: Celebrates the beauty of Edo with detailed and innovative compositions
- Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji: Showcases various perspectives of Japan’s iconic mountain
Hiroshige passed away in 1858 during a cholera epidemic. Despite his death, his legacy lives on through his timeless prints.
Key Contributions and Series
- The Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō: Transformed landscape printmaking
- One Hundred Famous Views of Edo: Highlighted urban and natural beauty
- Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji: Offered unique perspectives on Japan’s sacred mountain
Each series demonstrates Hiroshige’s keen observation and artistic innovation.
Collecting Hiroshige’s Works
Today, Hiroshige’s prints are highly sought after by collectors and museums worldwide. When collecting his works, consider the following:
- Condition: Well-preserved prints are more valuable
- Edition: First editions are rarer and more prized
- Provenance: Prints with a documented history are more desirable
Conclusion
Utagawa Hiroshige remains a towering figure in the world of ukiyo-eUkiyo-e, meaning "pictures of the floating world," is a genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th to the 19th century. These woodblock prints and paintings capture the vibrant urban culture of Edo-period Japan, depicting everything from beautiful women to dramatic landscapes. Origins and Development • Period: Emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868) • City of Origin: Edo (modern. His ability to capture the beauty and essence of Japan has left an indelible mark on the art world. Through his innovative techniques and captivating compositions, Hiroshige’s legacy continues to inspire and influence artists and art lovers around the globe.
Read more about Hiroshige and his influence on other artists:
The Three Ages of Woman by Gustav Klimt – Canvas Giclée Print
Impressionism and Japonisme: How Japan Has Inspired Western Artists