Het is goed om voor het eerst weer te schrijven

About this artwork

nishikie, with metallic pigments

Art Historical Context

**Totoya Hokkei's "Het is goed om voor eerst weer te schrijven"ca. 1822)** This charming nishikie wood print by Totoya Hokkei, a prominent Japanese ukiyo-e artist and pupil of the famed Katsushika Hokusai, captures a moment of rediscovered joy in writing. Measuring just 203mm by 176mm, its intimate scale suits the surimono tradition—luxurious, privately commissioned prints often exchanged as New Year's greetings among literati. The title, translating from Dutch as "It is good to write again for the first time," evokes the delight of resuming a cherished activity, likely depicting a figure engaged in calligraphy or letter-writing amid everyday elegance. Hokkei's mastery shines in the nishikie technique, or "brocade pictures," where intricate woodblocks layer vibrant colors and fine details to mimic luxurious textiles. Here, metallic pigments add a shimmering allure, elevating the print from common ukiyo-e to artisanal splendor. Produced during Japan's Edo period (1603–1868), such works reflect ukiyo-e's focus on fleeting beauty and urban life, blending artistry with poetic sentiment. Culturally, this piece highlights surimono's role in fostering personal connections through art and verse, a hallmark of refined Japanese aesthetics. Visitors will appreciate its delicate glow under gallery lights, a window into 19th-century Japan's vibrant print culture. (198 words)

About the Artist

Totoya Hokkei · 1780–1850

Totoya Hokkei (魚屋 北渓, 1780–1850), born Iwakubo Tatsuyuki in Edo (modern Tokyo), began his life as a humble fishmonger in the Yotsuya Samegahashi district, a trade reflected in his art name "Totoya," meaning fish shop. He transitioned to art through rigorous training, first studying under Kanō Yōsen'in Korenobu, head of the Kobikichō branch of the prestigious Kanō school, where he honed landscape p...