Poem by Sanjo-in - Katsushika Hokusai

A woodblock print from Hokusai's series interpreting the classic Hyakunin isshu anthology, depicting a serene nocturnal scene at the imperial court.

This woodblock print belongs to the series One Hundred Poems Explained by the Nurse, a project in which Katsushika Hokusai interpreted the classic Hyakunin isshu anthology. The series aimed to make these historical poems accessible to a wider audience by depicting the scenes described or the circumstances of the poets themselves. In this composition, Hokusai illustrates the poem by Sanjo-in, an emperor who reigned during the early eleventh century. The scene captures a quiet, nocturnal atmosphere within a palace setting.

The architectural structure is rendered with precise, clean lines, typical of Hokusai's mature style. Figures are positioned across the wooden veranda and interior chambers, their postures suggesting a formal, courtly environment. The artist employs a balanced use of colour, with deep blues and muted reds contrasting against the pale, circular moon that dominates the upper centre of the frame. The dark, atmospheric sky is achieved through subtle gradations of ink, providing a sense of depth that draws the eye across the veranda.

Hokusai's approach to this series demonstrates his ability to integrate narrative elements with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The figures are depicted in period-appropriate attire, their garments decorated with patterns that add visual interest without overwhelming the composition. The print serves as a record of both the literary traditions of the Heian period and the technical mastery of the Edo-period printmakers who collaborated with Hokusai. The inclusion of the poem text in the upper right corner maintains the connection between the visual image and the literary source material, a common feature in this series. This work remains a clear example of Hokusai's late-career output, where he moved away from the more dramatic subjects of his earlier prints toward scenes of domestic life and historical narrative.