Artwork
The Mokuboji Temple by the Sumida River
The Mokuboji Temple by the Sumida River is a drawing by the Japonisme artist Katsushika Hokusai. It dates from 1786 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Mokuboji Temple by the Sumida River is a drawing by Hokusai, created during his 'Shunro' period, between 1779 and 1794. It is a hanshita-e, a preparatory drawing for a woodblock print.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a serene scene of a temple by a river, with boats on the water and trees framing the composition. The tranquil atmosphere is conveyed through soft lines and gentle shading.
Technique & Style
Executed in black ink on paper, the drawing showcases Hokusai's precise draftsmanship. Tight cross-hatching is used to shade the roof and water, providing guidance for the woodblock carver.
History & Provenance
The drawing is now part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Katsushika Hokusai spent his life in Edo, now Tokyo, where he drew and carved prints for a living.
