Western-style landscape Ukiyo-e by Hokusai

One-point perspective (linear perspective *) was established in the Western world in the 15th century as a painting technique. It is said to have been introduced to Japan during the Edo period through Dutch prints (copper engravings and book illustrations) imported into Nagasaki and Chinese prints. The impact on ukiyo-e was significant, and artists attempted to depict scenes such as theaters using this new technique. These works were called "uki-e" (floating pictures) because the images appeared to float forward. (There are various theories about the origin of "uki-e.")

Hokusai, who diligently studied both Japanese and Western painting techniques, produced several uki-e in his 40s. Among them are a few works drawn in the style of Dutch copper engravings, reflecting Hokusai's strong awareness of the West.