← Utagawa Kuniyoshi

Concise Illustrated Biography of Monk Nichiren: Calming the Stormy Sea at Tsunoda in Exile to Sado Island

Original title: Concise Illustrated Biography of Monk Nichiren: Calming the Stormy Sea at Tsunoda in Exile to Sado Island

Artist

Utagawa Kuniyoshi

Date

1835–36

Medium

Woodblock print; ink and color on paper

Dimensions

8 7/8 x 13 3/4 in. (22.5 x 34.9 cm)

Credit line

Henry L. Phillips Collection, Bequest of Henry L. Phillips, 1939

kurzbeschreibung

Utagawa Kuniyoshi's colour woodblock print from 1835–36 presents an episode from the life of the monk Nichiren: on a boat, he subdues a massive wave. The sheet measures 22.5 x 34.9 cm and is executed in ink and colour on paper. It belongs to a series that narrates Nichiren's life in pictures.

Description

A figure sits in a boat, arms raised, commanding a mighty wave to stop—a gesture of calm and control. Several people are in the boat with him, in various postures, some frightened, some anxious. Far in the distance, a volcano rises, wrapped in clouds, while the sky carries stars and clouds. Blues dominate the waves and sea, with accents of red and brown on the boat and clothing. The layout feels dynamic: strong wave lines emphasise movement and power.

Context

This series was created in the 1830s, when historical and religious subjects were in high demand in Japanese woodblock printing. The Buddhist monk Nichiren (1222–1282) was exiled for his teachings; the episode shown takes place during his exile to Sado and recounts a miracle. Kuniyoshi was regarded as an innovator in interpreting legends and historical events. The series was likely intended for a broad audience that revered Nichiren.

Impact

A dramatic tension arises between the threatening wave and the calm gesture of the main figure. Luminous blues and dynamic lines give the print a powerful, almost theatrical presence. The viewer is immediately drawn into the action and senses Nichiren's calming presence.

Technique

Multiple colour blocks were used for this print to achieve the various tones. Precise lines and clear colouring correspond to the ukiyo-e technique of the Edo period. Ink and colour on paper allow for fine details and a lively rendering.

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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)