Katsuyuki Nishijima (b. 1945) puts a modern spin the ukiyo-e landscape tradition to portray a still street scene in a boldly reduced style. While classic ukiyo-e images depict detailed touristic sights in Japan and personalities of the entertainment district, this print presents three bright chrysanthemums in full bloom against a backdrop of ordinary neighborhood buildings.
The chrysanthemum is a popular motif in Japanese culture associated with youth and longevity, and also used as the emblem of the imperial family. Even while depicting an age-old subject with a traditional Japanese artistic technique, Nishijima infuses these vibrantly blossoming flowers with a new sense of freshness and rejuvenation.
— Sophie Kissin ’14