“Fishing in the River Kinu” is a genre painting by the acclaimed artist Katsushika Hokusai, a prominent figure in the Ukiyo-e art movement. This distinguished artwork is currently housed in the Guimet Museum located in Paris, France.
The artwork portrays an idyllic scene of daily life set against the picturesque backdrop of the River Kinu. In the composition, a group of fishermen and women are engrossed in their work within the flowing waters, their movements embodying the dynamism and rhythm of fishing activities. The lower portion of the artwork is filled with detailed depictions of figures engaging in various tasks associated with fishing, some bent over inspecting their catch while others are hauling nets. The varying hues of blue illustrate the river’s waves, adding a sense of movement and vitality to the scene.
Above them, set upon a reddish-brown embankment, are additional figures involved in the sorting and gathering of their harvest, alongside baskets brimming with fish. The tranquil landscape in the background is marked by a lush green hill and a path where a solitary person leads an ox-cart, suggesting the interconnectedness of rural life. The serene sky above completes this harmonious depiction, emphasizing Hokusai’s mastery in capturing both human endeavor and the beauty of nature.
