Picture Book of Kyōka Poems: Mountains upon Mountains (Ehon kyōka yama mata yama) 画本狂歌山満多山

Art Historical Context

Step into the whimsical world of Katsushika Hokusai's *Picture Book of Kyō Poems: Mountains upon Mountains*Ehon kyōka yama mata yama), in 1804 during Japan's vibrant Edo period (1615–1868). This woodblock-printed book, measuring a compact 10 7/16 × 6 7/8 inches, showcases Hokusai's early mastery in ukiyo-e—the "pictures of the floating world" style that captured everyday life with bold lines, vivid colors, and playful humor. At just 44 years old, Hokusai was already experimenting with innovative compositions, blending intricate illustrations of men and women with kyōka, satirical poems that poked fun at classical waka traditions through witty wordplay. Woodblock printing, the medium here, was revolutionary for its accessibility, allowing mass production of affordable ehon (picture books) that brought art and literature to urban audiences in Edo (modern Tokyo). Ink and color on paper come alive through precise carving and layering techniques, evoking layered "mountains" of imagery that mirror the title's poetic pun—yama mata yama, suggesting endless peaks of humor and beauty. This work highlights kyōka's cultural role as lighthearted social commentary, reflecting Edo Japan's booming print culture and literati fascination with parody. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection, this gem offers a window into Hokusai's evolution toward masterpieces like *The Great Wave*. It's a delightful reminder of how art and poetry intertwined to entertain and provoke in feudal Japan.

About the Artist

Katsushika Hokusai 葛飾北斎 (Japanese) · 1760 –1849

Japanese, Tokyo (Edo) 1760–1849 Tokyo (Edo)