Shore of Lake Chuzenji 

Shotei Takahashi’s woodblock print presents us with a tranquil view of the Shore of Lake Chuzenji under a moonlit sky. The composition is structured by contrasting light and shadow, a bright moon that casts its glow on the water and mountains while the rest of the scene is cast in deep blues and blacks, creating a scene that evokes a sense of calm. The artist arranges the elements to draw our eyes across the image and a cluster of tall trees on the right anchors the composition, their dark silhouettes creating a natural barrier. The buildings on the right offer a glimpse of the interior with warm light that acts as a focal point, suggesting human presence. Figures on the path add a narrative element, their inclusion emphasizing the connection between nature and everyday life. Takahashi masterfully uses colour and form, transforming a simple landscape into a poetic reflection on the interplay between nature, humanity and light.