Landscapes of the Four Seasons: Spring and Summer

About this artwork

To 1906

Art Historical Context

Hishikawa Sori’s *Landscapes of the Four Seasons: Spring and Summer* captures the gentle transition of nature during Japan’s Edo period (1615–1868). Created in the late 18th to early 19th century, the painting reflects the ukiyo-e tradition’s deep appreciation for seasonal beauty, with mountains, trees, and flowing landscapes evoking renewal and vitality. Though the exact medium remains unknown, the work exemplifies how Japanese artists of this era used delicate compositions to convey harmony between humans and the natural world. As part of a larger series depicting all four seasons, this piece highlights the cultural importance of seasonal cycles in Japanese aesthetics, where spring’s blossoms and summer’s lush growth symbolize renewal and abundance. Sori’s approach aligns with ukiyo-e’s emphasis on fleeting moments, inviting viewers to pause and reflect on nature’s rhythms. This painting entered the Smithsonian American Art Museum through the generosity of Charles Lang Freer, whose collection helped introduce American audiences to Japanese art. Its presence today offers a serene window into Edo-period sensibilities and the enduring appeal of seasonal landscapes in Japanese culture.