An exhibition at the British Museum from 1 May to 7 September will showcase Utagawa Hiroshige’s prints and their influence on Van Gogh. It includes Van Gogh’s copy of “The Plum Garden at Kameido” and demonstrates the significant impact of Japanese art on 19th-century European artists.
The British Museum will host an exhibition dedicated to the renowned Japanese printmaker Utagawa Hiroshige from 1 May to 7 September. This exhibition will feature Van Gogh’s own homage to Hiroshige, highlighting the influence of Japanese art on European avant-garde artists. With over 100 prints showcased, the exhibition draws on significant loans to illustrate Hiroshige’s impact on 19th-century art.
While living in Paris (1886-88), Van Gogh developed a deep appreciation for Japanese art, acquiring over 600 prints, including 78 by Hiroshige. He paid around 15 centimes per print, highlighting their then-affordable status. His tribute includes works inspired by Hiroshige’s prints, notably “The Plum Garden at Kameido,” which will be on display, alongside his own tracing used for his painting.
Van Gogh’s version of Hiroshige’s composition is distinct as he added Japanese characters to highlight its inspiration. He cherished blooming trees, common in Japanese art, creating numerous blossom paintings after moving to Arles. Another of his works inspired by Hiroshige is titled “Bridge in the Rain,” featuring a similar border of Japanese characters, although neither piece will be exhibited due to their rarity.
Even after leaving Paris, Van Gogh’s work “Rain – Auvers” in July 1890 reflects Hiroshige’s influence. His portraits often display backgrounds of Hiroshige prints, including cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji imagery, demonstrating his lasting connection to Japanese aesthetics.
The exhibition will also include a drawing from Van Gogh influenced by Japanese art, which challenges traditional perspectives in landscape painting. Many avant-garde artists, including Whistler and Monet, were also inspired by Hiroshige, showcasing his broad influence on modern art.
The British Museum’s upcoming exhibition on Hiroshige not only recognises his artistry but also highlights the significant influence he had on Van Gogh and other European artists. With key artworks on display, the event illustrates how Japanese prints inspired new artistic directions in the late 19th century, particularly for Van Gogh, who embraced and transformed these influences into his own celebrated works.
Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com