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Mihogaseki Beach in Izumo Province

Art Appreciation

This captivating print invites us to a serene coastal village where a tall stone pier extends gracefully into calm, shimmering waters. The pier is rendered with exquisite detail—the texture of the stone and the subtle shadows cast by the small lantern and figures create a quiet sense of life and stillness. Nearby, a lone sailboat drifts gently, its reflection trembling delicately upon the water’s surface. Across the bay, a line of traditional wooden houses nestles against a lush, towering hillside, rendered in deep and varied greens that emphasize the dense foliage. Above, the sky is patterned with stylized clouds, lending the composition a rhythmic sense of movement. The use of woodblock print techniques is evident in the layered textures and vibrant yet restrained color palette—the blues, greens, and subtle earth tones feel both natural and harmonious.

The composition masterfully balances structural elements—the solid curve of the pier contrasts with the fluidity of the water and the organic shapes of the trees, leading the eye naturally through the piece. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth; the softly rippling water reflects the sky's changing tones, evoking a quiet morning or late afternoon ambiance. Emotionally, the scene stirs a gentle nostalgia and peaceful solitude, as if capturing a fleeting moment of calm in everyday village life. Historically, this print aligns with the shin-hanga movement’s revival of traditional ukiyo-e aesthetics fused with Western influences, celebrating Japan’s scenic beauty with a fresh vibrancy. Its artistic significance lies in how it elevates a simple coastal vista into a contemplative meditation on nature, community, and time.

Mihogaseki Beach in Izumo Province

Hasui Kawase

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Date unknown

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843 × 1250 px

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