Katsushika Hokusai’s Ukiyo-e I will explain The Cushion Pine Trees at Aoyama in Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.
The Enzamatsu in this ukiyo-e is an old pine tree that was in the garden of Aoyama Ryugan-ji Temple in Jingumae, Shibuya-ku.
It is said that there is more than three branches (approximately 5.6m) across the branches, and this pine that looks like a mountain was a famous spot in Edo.
In this ukiyo-e, the contrast between the dense figure of the pine that looks like a hat and the protruding triangular shape of Mt. Fuji is depicted in an exquisite composition.
The figure of Mt.Fuji is drawn larger than it actually is, sandwiched between misty clouds.
Pilgrims strolled through the temple’s large gardens and admired this pine tree.
At the bottom right of the screen, there are three men wearing blankets, unfolding bento boxes and exchanging cups, and a party enjoying sake.
The sight of a passerby’s father pulling his child up a hill with a hand towel is also a sight to behold.
If you look closely, at the bottom left of the painting, only the feet and broom of a person sweeping fallen leaves are depicted among pine splints.
This ukiyo-e is from around 1830 to 1832. Hokusai is around 72 years old.
