The artwork titled “A merchant making up the account” was created by the esteemed artist Katsushika Hokusai during the Ukiyo-e art movement. This work belongs to the genre of genre painting, depicting a slice of everyday life in Japan.
The artwork depicts a scene of three individuals engaged in their respective tasks within a traditional Japanese setting. The central figure, dressed in a finely patterned kimono, is intently working on an abacus, presumably tallying accounts. Another individual is seen to their left, preoccupied with a large book, possibly cross-referencing or assisting with the accounting. A third figure, on the right, is lying down leisurely, observing the process, adding a sense of casual interaction to the composition. The environment is detailed with traditional elements such as sliding screen doors and a wooden floor, imbued with soft, natural colors that reflect the decorum and aesthetics of the period. The overall mood is quiet and contemplative, highlighting the meticulous nature of the merchant’s work.
