Pheasant and Snake 1833

Katsushika Hokusai, working during Japan's Edo period, created this print of a Pheasant and Snake, we don't know exactly when, using woodblock printing. During this era, Japan experienced relative peace and prosperity, which allowed for the flourishing of arts and culture. Hokusai, however, lived through times of social hierarchy and strict class distinctions. Hokusai often explored themes of nature, daily life, and folklore, capturing the essence of Japanese culture. Here, the confrontation between the pheasant and snake is stark, it makes us consider themes of predation and survival. It’s hard to look at this image without thinking about power dynamics. Consider how Hokusai situates the viewer in relation to the scene. We're not merely observing, but implicated in the drama. This print invites us to reflect on the roles we play, and to acknowledge the delicate balance of the natural world.