Genroku kasen kaiawase

About this artwork

verzamelaarsmerk, verso, gestempeld: Lugt 2228

Art Historical Context

**Genroku Kasen Kaiawase** by Katsushika Hai (1760–1849), created in 1821, is a exquisite example of *nishikie*—vibrant woodblock prints known as "brocade pictures" for their rich, multicolored layers achieved through multiple carved blocks. Measuring just 203 × 177 mm, this intimate format was ideal for personal collections or albums. Hokusai, a towering figure in ukiyo (pictures of the floating world), masterfully blended everyday beauty with literary elegance here. The title evokes the Genroku era (1688–1704), a golden age of Japanese culture, and *kasen kaiawase* references a traditional shell-matching game (*kai-awase*), where pairs of shells depict matching scenes or poems from renowned poets, infusing the print with poetic playfulness. The use of metallic pigments—likely gold or silver—elevates this work beyond standard prints, creating a shimmering, luxurious effect that mimics fine textiles or lacquerware, a technique Hokusai reserved for special commissions like *surimono* (custom prints). Produced during Japan's Edo period, it captures the era's fascination with wit, nature, and classical literature amid urban prosperity. Bearing a collector's mark (Lugt 2228) on the verso, this piece boasts distinguished provenance, underscoring its enduring appeal. For visitors, it offers a window into Hokusai's versatility, bridging popular art with high culture in a single, sparkling gem. (198 words)

About the Artist

Katsushika Hokusai · 1760–1849

Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) stands as one of history's most influential artists, a Japanese master who revolutionized the ukiyo-e woodblock print tradition and profoundly shaped Western art. Born in the Katsushika district of Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to an artisan family, Hokusai lived through nearly nine decades of extraordinary creative evolution, adopting over thirty different artistic names t...