Evening Glow at Jungai by Katsushika Hokusai

This delicate print belongs to the rare series dedicated to the landscapes of the Ryukyu Islands, an archipelago that was then distant and exotic for the inhabitants of Edo. The artwork titled “Evening Glow at Jungai” is signed by the famous master Hokusai Katsushika, who was inspired by Chinese accounts and engravings to recreate these panoramas. This series bears witness to his insatiable curiosity for distant territories and his genius for reinventing places.

In the center, a steep rocky cliff covered with green vegetation rises above the calm waters of the ocean. Elegant traditional pavilions with blue roofs stand on its flat summit. On the left, two vessels with gray sails sail peacefully on a soft blue sea. On the right bank, other dwellings nestle among the pines, close to a red torii gate marking the entrance to a sacred space. The sky, clear in the center, features a deep Prussian blue band at the top and horizontal white clouds. The golden light of the end of the day bathes the entire landscape, creating a serene atmosphere.

This print showcases the incredible landscape sensitivity of the artist. The choice of complementary colors, the care given to the texture of the rock, and the fineness of the architectural details demonstrate a craftsmanship of great delicacy, capable of transporting the viewer on an imaginary and poetic journey through distant lands.