De vijf elementen
ca. 1820
Medium
nishikie, with metallic pigments and blindprinting
Dimensions
203; 179
About this artwork
kleurenhoutsnede; blinddruk; lijnblok in zwart met kleurblokken; metaalpigmenten
Art Historical Context
**De vijf elementen (The Five Elements)** *Totoya Hokkei, ca. 1820* Nishikie woodblock with metallic pigments and blind, 203 × 179 mm Created around 1820 during Japan's Edo period, *De vijf elementen* is a exquisite nishikie—or "brocade printby Totoya Hokkei (1780–1850), a master ukiyo-e artist and pupil of the legendary Katsushika Hokusai. This intimate surimono-style print likely depicts the five classical elements (earth, water, fire, wind, and void), drawing from East Asian philosophy to symbolize harmony in nature and the cosmos. Hokkei's work captures the "floating world" ethos of...
About the Artist
Totoya Hokkei · 1780–1850
Totoya Hokkei (魚屋 北渓, 1780–1850), born Iwakubo Tatsuyuki in Edo (modern Tokyo), began his life as a humble fishmonger in the Yotsuya Samegahashi district, a trade reflected in his art name "Totoya," meaning fish shop. He transitioned to art through rigorous training, first studying under Kanō Yōsen'in Korenobu, head of the Kobikichō branch of the prestigious Kanō school, where he honed landscape p...