How Prussian Blue Changed the Face of Ukiyo-e

In the bustling streets of Edo (now Tokyo), a new hue began to captivate the imaginations of artists and audiences alike. This deep, enduring blue, known as Prussian blue, marked a departure from the traditional, fleeting pigments previously used in Japanese woodblock prints. Its introduction not only enhanced the visual appeal of ukiyo-e but also signified a cultural shift in artistic expression.

What Is Prussian Blue?

Prussian blue, also known as Berlin blue, is considered the world’s first synthetic pigment. It was discovered in the early 18th century by the German chemist Johann Jacob Diesbach. This pigment offered a range of advantages over natural blue dyes like indigo and dayflower, which were prone to fading. Prussian blue’s bright, intense hue, fine particle size, and high tinting strength made it an indispensable addition to the printmaker’s palette, largely supplanting earlier dyes.

How Did It Arrive in Japan?

Prussian blue made its way to Japan through Dutch traders at Dejima, Nagasaki—the sole window to the West during Japan’s period of national isolation (sakoku). The pigment, referred to in Japan as “bero-ai” (a derivation of “Berlin blue”), was prized for its durability and vibrancy. Its adoption marked a significant shift in the Japanese art scene, allowing for more vivid and lasting coloration in prints.

A Turning Point in Ukiyo-e: The Late Edo Period

Prior to the advent of Prussian blue, ukiyo-e artists were limited to a palette derived from natural dyes, which often lacked intensity and permanence. The introduction of Prussian blue in the 1820s revolutionized this art form, enabling the creation of “aizuri-e”—prints primarily rendered in shades of blue. This innovation opened new avenues for artistic expression, particularly in landscape prints.

Hokusai and The Great Wave: The Birth of Blue Drama

Katsushika Hokusai’s iconic The Great Wave off Kanagawa stands as a testament to the transformative power of Prussian blue. This print, part of his Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji series, showcases the dynamic and emotive potential of the pigment. The deep blues of the towering wave contrast strikingly with the delicate hues of Mount Fuji in the background, creating a sense of drama and movement that was unprecedented in Japanese printmaking.

The Great Wave off Kanagawa - from the Sumida Hokusai Museum — The Great Wave off Kanagawa – from the Sumida Hokusai Museum

Hiroshige and the Poetry of Rain

Utagawa Hiroshige, another master of ukiyo-e, utilized Prussian blue to evoke atmosphere and emotion in his landscapes. In works like Sudden Shower Over Shin-Ohashi Bridge and Atake (1857), Hiroshige captures the transient beauty of rain-soaked scenes, with varying shades of blue conveying depth and mood. His adept use of the pigment contributed to the lyrical quality that defines his oeuvre.

Sudden Shower over Shin-Ohasi Bridge - Hiroshige artworks — Sudden Shower over Shin-Ohasi Bridge by Hiroshige sold for over $118K at Christie’s

The Social Impact: Ukiyo-e for the Masses

The adoption of Prussian blue had significant social implications. Its lightfastness ensured that prints retained their vibrancy over time, increasing their appeal to both domestic and international audiences. This durability, coupled with the mass production capabilities of woodblock printing, allowed ukiyo-e to flourish as an accessible art form, bridging social classes and fostering a shared cultural appreciation.

The European Connection Comes Full Circle

Ironically, the European-born Prussian blue, after revolutionizing Japanese art, re-entered the Western consciousness through the Japonisme movement. European artists like Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh were profoundly influenced by Japanese prints, particularly those featuring the striking use of Prussian blue. This cross-cultural exchange underscores the pigment’s role as a bridge between Eastern and Western artistic traditions.

Hiroshige and Van Gogh's Sudden Shower over Shin-Ōhashi Bridge and Atake — Hiroshige and Van Gogh’s Sudden Shower over Shin-Ōhashi Bridge and Atake

Emotional Resonance: The Psychology of Blue

In Japanese aesthetics, blue embodies qualities of calmness, spirituality, and impermanence. The use of Prussian blue in ukiyo-e resonates with these themes, inviting viewers into contemplative spaces that reflect the transient nature of life. This emotional depth adds layers of meaning to the visual allure of the prints.

Legacy: Why Prussian Blue Still Matters

Today, Prussian blue continues to be celebrated in the art world. Contemporary artists and printmakers honor its legacy by incorporating the pigment into their works, ensuring that the “blue revolution” endures. The timeless appeal of Prussian blue serves as a reminder of the enduring power of color to inspire and transform.

Closing Thoughts: A World Dyed in Blue

The journey of Prussian blue—from a serendipitous discovery in a European laboratory to a catalyst for innovation in Japanese art—illustrates the profound impact of cross-cultural exchanges. Its story is woven into the fabric of art history, coloring our understanding of creativity and connection across time and place.

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Salman A

Based in the vibrant city of Dubai, I thrive as a designer and filmmaker with a passion sparked in childhood by the thrilling adventures of UFO Robot Grendizer and Speed Racer. My journey took a deeper dive into the world of art through a profound fascination with Japanese culture, enriched by memorable times spent in Japan. Creativity pulses at the core of who I am. Connect with me for tailor-made design and film projects that bring your visions to life.