The Samurai who became an Artist: Hiroshige Utagawa

In partnership with

“I am seeking. I am striving. I am in it with all my heart.” – Vincent van Gogh

In today’s email:

• Artwork of the week: Naruto Whirlpool

• New Hiroshige Print Collection

• Secret Project: Deshima Gallery

• The Samurai who became an Artist: Hiroshige Utagawa

Artwork of the Week: Naturo Whirlpool by Hiroshige Utagawa

This week, we spotlight Naruto Whirlpool (also spelled Naturo Whirlpool), an iconic print by the renowned Japanese artist Hiroshige Utagawa, who was a master of the ukiyo-e style. Created in 1857 as part of his famous series "Famous Views of the Sixty-odd Provinces", this woodblock print captures the dramatic swirling currents of the Naruto Strait, a natural phenomenon that has captivated viewers for centuries.

The Scene

The Naruto Whirlpool is located between Awaji Island and Shikoku in Japan, where tidal currents create one of the world’s largest whirlpools. Hiroshige’s print captures this majestic power of nature, with the swirling water dominating the foreground, while a distant landscape hints at the serene backdrop of mountains and distant shores.

The whirlpool, though a natural phenomenon, becomes almost abstract in Hiroshige’s hands, with bold curves and sharp lines that suggest both the beauty and the force of the sea. The contrast between the deep blue and white crests of the water makes the whirlpool appear to move in front of your eyes, pulling you into its depth.

Artistic Techniques

Hiroshige’s use of color and composition brings dynamism and movement to the scene. Ukiyo-e, a genre of woodblock prints, often focuses on everyday scenes, but here, Hiroshige elevates nature itself as the subject. His use of “bokashi” (color gradation) gives the water a sense of depth and fluidity, while the fine detail of the surrounding cliffs and distant ships adds layers of context and perspective.

Symbolism and Cultural Context

Beyond its visual appeal, Naruto Whirlpool holds symbolic significance. The whirlpool can be seen as a metaphor for the uncontrollable forces of nature, in contrast to the often orderly human world depicted in much of Hiroshige’s work. During the Edo period, when this print was made, Japan was experiencing relative peace and isolation, making natural phenomena like this whirlpool a reminder of the untamed world outside.

Hiroshige's Naruto Whirlpool is more than just a scenic view—it's a powerful reflection of nature’s unpredictability, rendered with grace and artistic mastery. It stands as a testament to Hiroshige’s talent in turning everyday views into timeless works of art.

New Print Collection: The Timeless Art of Hiroshige Utagawa

We’re excited to announce the release of our latest collection—featuring stunning reproductions of Hiroshige Utagawa’s iconic works! Known for his masterful ukiyo-e prints, Hiroshige captured the beauty of Japan’s landscapes, from tranquil scenes to the powerful forces of nature.

This exclusive collection includes some of his most famous pieces, like Naruto Whirlpool, and more. Each print is meticulously printed, staying true to the vivid colors and intricate details that have made Hiroshige’s work legendary.

Bring the elegance of Edo-period Japan into your space with these timeless prints. Available for a limited time!