Artwork
Yoshiwara
Yoshiwara 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
Yoshiwara is a drawing by Katsushika Hokusai, created during his early career when he signed his works 'Shunro'. It is a hanshita-e, a preparatory drawing for a woodblock print.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a scene from Yoshiwara, the pleasure quarter of Edo (modern-day Tokyo). The subject reflects Hokusai's interest in capturing aspects of urban life.
Technique & Style
As a hanshita-e, the drawing showcases Hokusai's skill in creating detailed designs for woodblock printing. The work demonstrates his experimentation with different styles and techniques during this period.
History & Provenance
The drawing dates to between 1779 and 1794, a significant period in Hokusai's development as an artist.
Artist & collection
Artist
Katsushika Hokusai spent his life in Edo, now Tokyo, where he drew and carved prints for a living.
