Roughly twenty-five years after Hokusai released his series of ukiyo-e prints depicting Japan's most recognisable symbol, Hiroshige took on the subject as well-a common practice among the era's printmakers. This volume features reproductions of the horizontal version of Hiroshige's woodblock series, first published in 1852, and which reveal a mature artist working at the height of his powers. In the background of each of the views Mount Fuji is featured under varying vantage points and changing lights, towering over sites of sublime beauty, often animated by a few characters living in harmony with nature. These exquisite fold-out plates are perfect for appreciating Hiroshige's eye for composition, his nontraditional use of line, and the subtle gradations of colour and mood. Viewers can also learn much about daily life and culture in 19th-century Japan through carefully applied detail and symbolism. In his introductory booklet, Jocelyn Bouquillard provides captions for each print, as well as an appreciation of the remarkable and painstaking process of woodblock printing. Packaged in an elegant slipcase, these volumes reflect the beautiful artistry and traditions that are embodied in the prints themselves.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 184

Dimensions: 173 x 245 mm

Publication Date: 07-09-2021

Featuring the works Japan’s most celebrated neko-e artists, this gorgeous boxed set contains a volume of more than seventy exquisite accordion-fold prints and an accompanying booklet with explanatory texts. For centuries, cats have played an essential role in Japanese culture and folklore. Long before Hello Kitty, they were fetishized and revered by every strata of Japanese society, especially by artists. This volume collects dozens of prints by the greatest masters of Japanese printmaking including Hokusai, Hiroshige, Kuniyoshi, Utamaro, and Kunichika. It beautifully reflects the complex nature of the country’s attachment to felines. Cats are depicted as playful and cuddly, menacing and predatory; they are imbued with erotic meaning; and regarded as symbols of wealth and taste. They can be seen as having human qualities, yet also take on monstrous forms. Each of these prints captures its subject’s personality with meticulous detail, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns. Included in this package is a booklet featuring an introduction to and brief texts about each of the works—making this the perfect gift for cat fanciers, Japanese culture enthusiasts and lovers of woodblock prints.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 226

Dimensions: 123 x 176 mm

Publication Date: 05-03-2024