Turtles c. 1825 - 1830

Totoya Hokkei created this woodblock print, titled "Turtles," in Japan in the early 19th century. During this period, Japanese art frequently explored themes of nature, folklore, and social commentary, all of which are interwoven in this delightful print. The imagery merges the real with the fantastical. Two turtles, one carrying the other, are juxtaposed with an inset scene depicting Urashima Taro, a fisherman from Japanese folklore who was invited to the Dragon Palace at the bottom of the sea and rewarded for saving a turtle. Hokkei's print thus touches on themes of gratitude, transformation, and the rewards that come from virtuous acts. Consider how the turtles, symbols of longevity and good fortune, are rendered with a playful sensibility, reflecting a broader cultural appreciation for these creatures. The artist’s focus on turtles – not just as symbols but as beings in their own right – invites reflection on our relationship with the natural world. Hokkei captures the emotional resonance of a beloved folktale, while subtly reinforcing cultural values.