The artwork titled “Wooden Horse,” created by the renowned artist Katsushika Hokusai circa 1822, is a woodcut piece belonging to the Ukiyo-e art movement. Measuring 21 by 18.4 cm, it is classified within the still life genre and is currently housed in the Brooklyn Museum in New York City, NY, US.
“Wooden Horse” exquisitely illustrates a scene with detailed depictions of a wooden horse accompanied by various traditional Japanese objects. The wooden horse, adorned with intricate, patterned fabrics that resemble a saddle and other riding accessories, occupies a central position in the artwork. To the right, there is an elaborately designed, towering pedestal with vibrant floral designs, which holds what appears to be a helmet-like object atop it. Below, other finely rendered items, such as a pair of footwear and a substantial, cushioned mat or rug, complete this still life arrangement. This piece demonstrates Hokusai’s masterful use of the woodcut medium to capture the textures and patterns within the composition, offering a meticulous glimpse into Japanese cultural artifacts.
