Description

Above a broad, densely gathered band of clouds rises the snow-covered peak of Mount Fuji, clear and almost floating, as if the landscape below had withdrawn for a moment. Below the clouds a quiet lake opens up, its left shore lined with thatched-roof houses nestled among trees, while on the right two tall pines mark the edge of the composition.

In the foreground a narrow wooden boat glides across the water, carrying two fishermen who are visibly enjoying a lively conversation. This small, cheerful scene forms an appealing contrast to the grandeur of the mountain and gives the picture a warm, human touch, of the kind often used in Japanese landscape painting to make proportions palpable.

Mount Fuji has for centuries been one of the most important pictorial motifs of Japan and is regarded as a sacred mountain, the sight of which is said to bring good fortune. Executed as a silkscreen print on silk and signed at the right-hand margin, this hanging scroll combines strong tones of green with a cool, misty distance and makes for a pleasing focal point in a living room or tokonoma.