Voettocht door de Kinai regio 1919

These woodblock prints called ‘Voettocht door de Kinai regio’ were made by Nakazawa Hiromitsu, sometime between the late 19th and early 20th century. I love the way the image is built up through multiple layers of colour; it makes the image feel soft, like a faded memory. The colour palette is really interesting – muted greens, browns, and blues create a serene but slightly melancholic atmosphere. The texture of the paper, visible through the thin layers of ink, adds to the sense of age and history. What's striking is how the artist has used the wood grain to add texture to the trees and foliage, bringing the landscape to life. I am particularly drawn to the way the trees frame the scene and lead your eye into the distance. This reminds me of some of Hiroshige's landscapes, which also capture a sense of place and atmosphere. But there’s something really unique about Nakazawa’s handling of colour, it’s understated and kind of beautiful. These woodblocks are a reminder that art is an ongoing conversation, with artists building upon the ideas and techniques of those who came before them.