This elegant shikishi card from the renowned Ōtsuka Kōgeisha (大塚巧藝社) features a breathtaking depiction of Mount Fuji, Japan’s most iconic and sacred mountain, emerging majestically above a sea of clouds. Rendered in soft gradient hues of icy blue and snow white, the towering peak stands in tranquil contrast against the warm, golden clouds that fill the sky, suggesting dawn or dusk and imbuing the piece with a sense of calm and spiritual reverence.
The painterly style and atmospheric color blending reflect the traditions of Nihonga (Japanese-style painting), with a delicate balance of form and emptiness that evokes the Zen aesthetic. The composition invites quiet contemplation, capturing Mount Fuji not just as a geographical landmark, but as a timeless symbol of purity, endurance, and transcendence.
Ōtsuka Kōgeisha, established in 1919 by Minoru Ōtsuka, was founded on the ideal of "art for the people". Originally a photography studio, the company evolved into a leading producer of kōgei-ga (巧藝画) thanks to Ōtsuka’s collaboration with master painter Yokoyama Taikan and his deep commitment to making fine art accessible. Their work often drew from traditional Japanese themes, including seasonal motifs with cultural significance.
