The dream of a fisherman's wife

Definition

'The dream of a fisherman's wife' is a famous Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print by artist Hokusai, created in the early 19th century. This artwork features an erotic scene between a woman and an octopus, showcasing a unique blend of fantasy and desire. The print exemplifies the integration of poetry and visual art in Japanese culture, as it often combines imagery with poetic themes, reflecting a deeper narrative and emotional resonance that can provoke thought and inspire interpretation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'The dream of a fisherman's wife' is part of Hokusai's 'Shunga' series, which features erotic art that was popular among the Edo period's upper classes.
2. The imagery used in the print serves as a metaphor for unfulfilled desire and the complexities of human emotion, adding layers of meaning beyond its surface.
3. Hokusai's work is notable for its intricate detail and the way it captures movement, particularly in the fluid forms of the octopus and the woman.
4. This artwork reflects societal attitudes towards sexuality during the Edo period, where erotic art was both celebrated and censored in varying degrees.
5. The fusion of poetry and painting in this work exemplifies how artists like Hokusai utilized visual storytelling to evoke feelings and ideas that resonate with viewers on multiple levels.

Review Questions

• How does 'the dream of a fisherman's wife' demonstrate the integration of poetry within visual art?
  • 'The dream of a fisherman's wife' exemplifies the integration of poetry in visual art through its rich imagery that conveys deeper themes of desire and fantasy. The scene captures not only physical interaction but also evokes emotional narratives that can be interpreted much like poetry. This blend enhances the viewer's experience, inviting them to reflect on both the aesthetic beauty and the underlying meanings present in the artwork.
• What societal attitudes towards sexuality does Hokusai's 'the dream of a fisherman's wife' reveal about the Edo period?
  • 'The dream of a fisherman's wife' reflects complex societal attitudes towards sexuality during the Edo period, where erotic art was both embraced for its aesthetic qualities and scrutinized for moral implications. While some viewed such works as playful expressions of desire, others criticized them for promoting immorality. This tension illustrates how art served as a mirror to cultural values, allowing for both celebration and censorship within society.
• In what ways did Hokusai's artistic style influence contemporary understandings of erotic themes in art, particularly through works like 'the dream of a fisherman's wife'?
  • 'The dream of a fisherman's wife' showcases Hokusai's innovative artistic style, which combined intricate details with dynamic compositions that enhanced the portrayal of erotic themes. His ability to weave fantasy into visually striking narratives has influenced contemporary perceptions by challenging traditional boundaries in art. This work encourages modern artists to explore themes of intimacy and human connection through various mediums while appreciating the historical context that shaped these representations in Hokusai's time.

Related terms

Ukiyo-e: 'Ukiyo-e' refers to a genre of Japanese woodblock prints that flourished from the 17th to the 19th centuries, depicting landscapes, kabuki actors, and scenes from everyday life, often infused with elements of fantasy.

Hokusai: 'Hokusai' is one of Japan's most famous artists known for his ukiyo-e prints, paintings, and drawings, including the iconic 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa.'

Erotic art: 'Erotic art' encompasses artworks that explore themes of sexuality and desire, often pushing social boundaries while providing insight into human relationships and cultural perceptions of intimacy.