Utagawa Hirokage
Utagawa Hirokage
Utagawa Hirokage (active circa 1855–1865) was a Japanese Ukiyo-e woodblock print artist, primarily known for his comedic and often satirical works. He is generally believed to have been a student of the renowned landscape artist Utagawa Hiroshige (Andō Hiroshige). While his master was famous for poetic and atmospheric landscapes, Hirokage carved out a niche for himself with a more humorous and lighthearted approach to Ukiyo-e.
Hirokage's most famous work is the series 'Comical Views of Famous Places in Edo' (Edo meisho dōke zukushi), published around 1859. This series consists of about 50 prints and playfully parodies famous locations in Edo (now Tokyo) that were often depicted in more serious landscape series by artists like Hiroshige himself. In Hirokage's versions, these well-known scenes are populated with figures engaged in slapstick situations, exaggerated mishaps, and general comical chaos. For example, a famous bridge might be the scene of people tumbling into the water, or a serene temple view might be disrupted by clumsy antics. His style is characterized by lively figures, expressive (often exaggerated) faces, and a clear narrative, designed to amuse the viewer. The humor is often broad and visual, relying on physical comedy and absurd situations. This type of comedic print, or giga-e, had a long tradition in Japanese art, and Hirokage's work fits into this genre. Beyond this main series, Hirokage also produced other comed . . . Read More >>
Discover the humorous and often satirical world of Utagawa Hirokage, an Ukiyo-e artist active in the mid-19th century, believed to be a pupil of Utagawa Hiroshige. Hirokage is best known for his comedic series, such as 'Comical Views of Famous Places in Edo,' where he playfully parodies famous landscapes and daily life scenes. His style often incorporates exaggerated figures and amusing situations, offering a lighthearted counterpoint to the more serene or dramatic works of his contemporaries. For those who appreciate wit and a unique perspective within Ukiyo-e, Hirokage's prints provide a delightful and engaging addition to any collection.
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