Artwork

Distant View of Mount Akiha, Kakegawa

Distant View of Mount Akiha, Kakegawa, by Andō Hiroshige, ink, 1834
Distant View of Mount Akiha, Kakegawa, by Andō Hiroshige, ink, 1834

Distant View of Mount Akiha, Kakegawa is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Andō Hiroshige. It dates from 1834 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Distant View of Mount Akiha, Kakegawa is a color woodcut print created by Andō Hiroshige in 1834, currently part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene cityscape featuring a bridge over calm water, populated by figures engaged in daily activities: walking, fishing, and a child at play. The distant presence of Mount Akiha and lanterns near the bridge add depth and context to the scene, capturing the balance between tranquility and quiet bustle of everyday life.

Technique & Style

Hiroshige employed bold, vibrant colors and simplified forms to compose the scene, characteristic of his woodcut style. The use of flat, two-dimensional elements juxtaposed with the suggested depth of the landscape and figures showcases his mastery of the medium in conveying both simplicity and complexity.

History & Provenance

Created in 1834, the print is now housed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., as part of its collection.

Context

This work is part of Hiroshige's broader oeuvre focusing on landscapes and urban scenes, reflecting the aesthetic and daily life interests of Edo-period Japan. The emphasis on a natural backdrop (Mount Akiha) and human activity aligns with the traditional Japanese appreciation for harmony between nature and human presence.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of this exact piece are not highlighted, as a Hiroshige work, it contributes to the broader influence of Japanese woodcuts on Western art movements, particularly Impressionism and Art Nouveau, through their introduction to Europe in the late 19th century.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.