HIROSHIGE Meaning and
Definition
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Hiroshige refers to Utagawa Hiroshige, a renowned Japanese artist of the ukiyo-e genre. Born in 1797 and active during the 19th century, Hiroshige is particularly celebrated for his landscape prints and his contribution to the development of the "fūkei-ga" (landscape pictures) style. His full name was Andō Hiroshige, and he was also known by the art names Ichiyūsai Hiroshige and Ryūsai.
Hiroshige’s works often depicted scenes from various Japanese provinces, cityscapes, and landscapes, capturing the essence of the distinctive culture, customs, and natural beauty of Japan during the Edo period. He was known for his skillful use of perspective, composition, and vibrant colors, which allowed him to portray the changing seasons, weather, and time of day with great detail and accuracy.
The term "hiroshige" can also refer to the numerous woodblock prints created by Hiroshige, which exemplify his masterful craftsmanship and artistic prowess. These prints have gained worldwide recognition and continue to influence artists to this day.
Hiroshige's legacy far exceeds his lifetime, as his works have left an indelible mark on the world of art. His innovative approach to landscape prints and ability to evoke emotions through his depictions have established him as one of the most celebrated and influential ukiyo-e artists in history.
Etymology of HIROSHIGE
The word "Hiroshige" is primarily associated with Utagawa Hiroshige, a famous Japanese ukiyo-e artist from the 19th century. However, "Hiroshige" itself is a personal name and does not have a specific etymology related to the artist. Instead, it is made up of two kanji characters. "Hiro" (広) means "wide" or "broad", while "shige" (重) means "heavy" or "serious". Therefore, "Hiroshige" could be translated as "wide seriousness" or "broad weight". It is important to note that the name "Hiroshige" is a common Japanese surname and is not exclusive to the artist.
