Cuckoo was painted by Utagawa Hiroshige in 1844.

Where can I see Cuckoo?

Cuckoo is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Cuckoo?

Cuckoo is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Cuckoo

Utagawa Hiroshige , 1844

Cuckoo is a print by the Romanticist artist Utagawa Hiroshige. It dates from 1844 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1930.178
Credit line: Bequest of Edward L. Whittemore

About this work

Overview

Utagawa Hiroshige's print 'Cuckoo' is a representative work from the Edo period, created around 1844. It is a characteristic example of the artist's focus on natural subjects.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a single cuckoo perched on a branch, set against a deep blue background. The simplicity of the composition emphasizes the bird's form and presence.

Technique & Style

Hiroshige employed a limited color palette, primarily white and blue, to achieve a striking visual effect. The branch is rendered with simple, clean lines, while the bird's features are detailed with precision.

History & Provenance

The print is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, exemplifying Hiroshige's contribution to the ukiyo-e tradition, which often explored landscapes and natural motifs beyond the typical urban themes.

歌川広重画　菊に雉|Pheasant with Chrysanthemums, Utagawa Hiroshige

Artist & collection

Artist

Utagawa Hiroshige

Utagawa Hiroshige (歌川広重) or Andō Hiroshige (安藤広重), born Andō Tokutarō (安藤徳太郎; 1797 – 12 October 1858), was a Japanese ukiyo-e artist, considered the last great master of that tradition.