Cuckoo was painted by Utagawa Hiroshige in 1844.

Where can I see Cuckoo?

Cuckoo is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Cuckoo?

Cuckoo is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Cuckoo

Utagawa Hiroshige , 1844

Cuckoo is a print by the Romanticist artist Utagawa Hiroshige. It dates from 1844 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Utagawa Hiroshige's print 'Cuckoo' is a representative work from the Edo period, created around 1844. It is a characteristic example of the artist's focus on natural subjects.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a single cuckoo perched on a branch, set against a deep blue background. The simplicity of the composition emphasizes the bird's form and presence.

Technique & Style

Hiroshige employed a limited color palette, primarily white and blue, to achieve a striking visual effect. The branch is rendered with simple, clean lines, while the bird's features are detailed with precision.

History & Provenance

The print is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, exemplifying Hiroshige's contribution to the ukiyo-e tradition, which often explored landscapes and natural motifs beyond the typical urban themes.

Artist & collection

Artist

Utagawa Hiroshige

Utagawa Hiroshige (歌川広重) or Andō Hiroshige (安藤広重), born Andō Tokutarō (安藤徳太郎; 1797 – 12 October 1858), was a Japanese ukiyo-e artist, considered the last great master of that tradition.