Artwork Page for The Whirlpools of Awa

Details / Information for The Whirlpools of Awa

The Whirlpools of Awa

1857

Utagawa Hiroshige 歌川 広重

(Japanese, 1797–1858)
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Culture
Japan, Edo period (1615–1868)
Medium
One of a triptych of color woodblock prints
Measurements
Sheet: 38.4 x 25.8 cm (15 1/8 x 10 3/16 in.)
Credit Line
Bequest of Edward L. Whittemore 1930.183.a
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

Late in his career, Hiroshige explored the poetic theme of setsugekka, “snow, moon, and flowers,” in a set of three triptychs. The swirling whirlpools at Awa would remind the viewer of flowers.
A vertically oriented woodblock print depicts a turbulent coast where white-capped teal waves swirl in rhythmic patterns around dark rocks. Beyond the churning surf, two lone sailboats drift on a serene sea. To the right, a verdant cliff juts into the water. In the background, layered green and gray mountains rise beneath a sky fading from cream to deep indigo. Calligraphy and red seals punctuate the left edge.

The Whirlpools of Awa

1857

Utagawa Hiroshige

(Japanese, 1797–1858)
Japan, Edo period (1615–1868)

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