Schildpadden
ca. 1826
Medium
nishikie, with metallic pigments and blindprinting
Dimensions
199; 184
About this artwork
kleurenhoutsnede; blinddruk; lijnblok in zwart met kleurblokken; metaalpigmenten
Art Historical Context
**Schildpadden (Turtles)** by Totoya Hokkei,. 1826, invites visitors into the vibrant world of Edo-period Japan through this exquisite *nishikie*—a "brocade picture" woodblock print renowned for its lavish colors and textures. Hokkei, a ukiyo-e artist pupil of the master Katsushika Hokusai, crafted this intimate scene (199 × 184 mm) during a golden age of Japanese printmaking, when such works captured everyday beauty and nature's wonders for a broad audience, from merchants to samurai. The print's technical brilliance shines in its *kleurenhoutsnede* (color woodcut) process: a black line bloc...
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...