Tea Things

Totoya Hokkei, born in 1780 in Edo (modern-day Tokyo), began his career as a fishmonger before embarking on a path that led him to become a notable ukiyo-e artist. His artistic journey began with studies in Japanese painting under Kano Yosenin, but it was under the mentorship of the renowned master Katsushika Hokusai that he truly honed his skills. In the annals of literature, Hokkei is often celebrated as one of Hokusai's most accomplished disciples.

Hokkei's area of specialization was surimono, which was the type of intricately designed woodblock prints commissioned privately. These commissions typically originated from the cultured and affluent circles of Edo, particularly those associated with poetry.

In addition to crafting individual surimono, Hokkei also lent his artistic talents to book illustrations. In ancient Japan, books were created using the same woodblock technique as individual prints, showcasing Hokkei's versatility in translating his artistry across different mediums.

You know what works with a cup of tea? Planning stuff (especially museum trips)! Please check our golden Undated Planner with Vienna Secession artworks in the DailyArt Shop, you will love it!

P.S. Is there anything better on a cold, winter evening than a cup of hot tea? Here's how artists portray tea drinking in art!