Poem by Kanke, from the series One Hundred Poems Explained by the Nurse - Katsushika Hokusai

A classic woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai depicting an aristocratic ox-drawn carriage, part of his series interpreting the Hyakunin isshu poetry anthology.

This woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai belongs to the series One Hundred Poems Explained by the Nurse, a project that sought to interpret the classic Hyakunin isshu poetry anthology for a popular audience. In this specific composition, Hokusai illustrates the poem by Kanke, also known as Sugawara no Michizane. The scene depicts an ox-drawn carriage, a traditional mode of transport for the Heian-period aristocracy, set against a backdrop of autumn leaves.

Hokusai employs a clear, narrative style to bridge the gap between the classical poem and the daily life of the Edo period. The carriage, with its ornate wheels and patterned textiles, occupies the left side of the frame. Attendants stand nearby, while the ox rests on the ground, creating a sense of pause in the journey. The inclusion of falling maple leaves provides a seasonal marker, connecting the visual elements to the themes of the poem, which often reflect on the passage of time and the beauty of nature.

The print demonstrates Hokusai's mastery of line and colour. The composition balances the weight of the carriage with the figures of the attendants and the recumbent ox. The use of a limited palette, typical of the period, allows the details of the clothing and the carriage decoration to remain clear. The sky, rendered with a subtle gradient, adds depth to the scene without distracting from the primary subjects. This work provides a window into how Hokusai reinterpreted historical and literary subjects, making them accessible through his distinct visual language. The print is a fine example of the technical precision achieved by the carvers and printers who collaborated with Hokusai to produce these works.