The Lake of Hakone in the Sagami Province - Katsushika Hokusai

A classic woodblock print from Hokusai's Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, capturing the tranquil Lake Hakone with the mountain peak in the distance.

This woodblock print is part of the series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, a collection that established the mountain as a central subject in Japanese art. Hokusai depicts the serene waters of Lake Hakone, situated in the Sagami province, with the iconic peak of Mount Fuji visible in the distance. The composition employs a distinct use of colour, particularly the Prussian blue that became a hallmark of the series, contrasting with the soft, earthy tones of the surrounding hills. The print demonstrates Hokusai's mastery of spatial arrangement. He uses layered, undulating forms to suggest the topography of the region, while the placement of the trees and small buildings provides a sense of scale. The sky transitions from a deep blue at the top to a lighter hue near the horizon, a technique known as bokashi, which adds depth to the atmospheric conditions of the scene. The inclusion of the mountain, partially obscured by the rolling terrain, creates a dialogue between the foreground elements and the distant, snow-capped summit. Technically, the work reflects the precision of the Edo period printmaking process. Each colour block is registered with care to maintain the clarity of the lines and the consistency of the flat colour fields. The print captures a moment of stillness, focusing on the relationship between the natural environment and the human presence within it. By choosing this specific vantage point, Hokusai invites the viewer to observe the interplay of light and form across the Japanese countryside. This piece remains a clear example of the technical and aesthetic standards achieved during the height of the Ukiyo-e movement, offering a view of the region as it appeared in the early nineteenth century.