Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

"Japanese Hawk" is a striking example of the Ukiyo-e style by the esteemed Japanese artist Utagawa Hiroshige. This painting, created in 1857, captures a majestic hawk poised with elegance and precision, evoking the profound respect that hawks command in Japanese culture. The composition of the painting draws the viewer’s eye immediately to the hawk, which is depicted with meticulous attention to its feathers, talons, and intense gaze.

The hawk's plumage is rendered with fine lines and a subtle gradient of ink, emphasizing the detail and texture of each feather. The naturalistic representation is juxtaposed with a stylized sky in the background, featuring traditional Japanese cloud patterns, which highlight Hiroshige's mastery in blending realism with decorative elements. The overall palette includes muted and earthy tones, with occasional vivid accents, creating a harmonious balance that is both soothing and dynamic. Positioned on a branch or a cliff, the hawk exudes a sense of stillness and alertness, encapsulating the essence of its predatory prowess.

Information About the Original Painting and the Artist:

Utagawa Hiroshige (1797–1858), also known as Andō Hiroshige, was a master of the Ukiyo-e genre, which translates to "pictures of the floating world". Ukiyo-e was a prominent artistic movement in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868), known for its woodblock prints and paintings. Hiroshige, along with Katsushika Hokusai, is perhaps one of the most renowned exponents of this art form, celebrated for his landscapes and depictions of everyday life.

The "Japanese Hawk" work is a part of Hiroshige's late period, created just a year before his death. This period saw Hiroshige reflecting on nature with a refined subtlety and emotional depth. During his lifetime, he produced over 5,000 individual designs and contributed significantly to the genre's development and international appreciation.

The original painting of "Japanese Hawk" is currently housed in prominent collections, reflecting its significance. It can be found at museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, which has an extensive collection of Asian art, including works by Hiroshige. Some pieces may also be held by institutions in Japan, where Hiroshige's works are considered national treasures.

The depiction of animals, especially birds, was somewhat less common for Hiroshige, who focused primarily on landscapes. This painting thus represents a unique and noteworthy exploration within his oeuvre, demonstrating the versatility and breadth of his talent. Ukiyo-e prints like "Japanese Hawk" influenced Western Impressionists and Post-Impressionists, further establishing Hiroshige's lasting impact on the global art scene.

Noteworthy Details:

- Artistic Techniques: Hiroshige employed advanced woodblock printing techniques, which involved multiple impressions and exceptionally skilled carvers and printers.
- Cultural Significance: Hawks in Japanese culture symbolize strength, focus, and tenacity, often associated with samurai and martial virtues.
- Composition and Style: The composition’s balance between realism and stylization is a hallmark of Hiroshige's style, underscoring his ability to blend natural beauty with artistic expression.

"Japanese Hawk" by Utagawa Hiroshige stands as a testament to the elegance of Ukiyo-e art, capturing the spirit of Edo Japan’s natural and cultural aesthetics.