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Pyongyang Muldongdae in Korean Scenery Series 18940

Art Appreciation

This woodblock print presents a serene yet dynamic landscape, featuring a traditional East Asian pavilion perched above dense, leafy greenery. The scene unfolds beneath a sky veiled by slanting rain, punctuating the quietude with a gentle rhythm. The subtle gradations of blues and greens draw the eye effortlessly from the softly rippling river at the bottom, where a solitary figure rows a small boat, up through the thick foliage to the architectural structure that commands the middle ground. The pavilion's bold red pillars stand out against the natural hues, creating a striking contrast, while the elegant curved roofscapes evoke a timeless cultural heritage. The layering of the distant misty hills adds depth, underscoring the impression of a tranquil retreat nestled within nature’s embrace.

The artist’s mastery of woodblock printing techniques is evident in the detailed textures—the stippled foliage, the delicate rain lines, and the smooth water surface. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the atmospheric effect of a rainy day, inviting viewers to imagine the scent of wet earth and the soft patter of rain. Emotionally, the print conveys both solitude and harmony, as the lone boatman connects with the surrounding landscape in a quiet moment of contemplation. Historically, this scene reflects the artist’s fascination with the landscapes of Korea, capturing cultural architecture alongside natural beauty, and transporting the viewer to a peaceful yet vibrant place suspended in time.

Pyongyang Muldongdae in Korean Scenery Series 18940

Hasui Kawase

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4096 × 6032 px

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