Seasonal Genre Scenes (Fūzoku zukan): Cherry-Blossom Viewing in the Spring
Hishikawa Moronobu 菱川師宣
"Seasonal Genre Scenes (Fūzoku zukan): Cherry-Blossom Viewing in the Spring" by Hishikawa Moronobu, created in the 17th century, exemplifies the ukiyo-e genre, capturing the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms and the cultural practice of hanami (flower viewing) in Edo-period Japan. Moronobu's work significantly influenced the development of ukiyo-e prints, merging detailed depictions of contemporary life with seasonal themes, thereby contributing to the visual narrative of Japanese aesthetics and social customs.
"Seasonal Genre Scenes (Fūzoku zukan): Cherry-Blossom Viewing in the Spring" by Hishikawa Moronobu features a vibrant depiction of figures engaged in hanami, or cherry-blossom viewing, characterized by intricate detailing and a harmonious color palette that emphasizes the ephemeral beauty of spring. The composition is marked by a dynamic arrangement of figures beneath blooming cherry trees, showcasing Moronobu's mastery of ukiyo-e techniques and his ability to capture the social customs of Edo-period Japan.