hōko amano: A Master of Edo Landscape Painting hōko amano (1832-1891) stands as a pivotal figure in the history of Japanese art, specifically within the vibrant tapestry of ukiyo-e prints and paintings produced during the late Edo and early Meiji eras. Born in Tokyo—then Edo, Japan’s imperial capital—Amano’s artistic journey began humbly as a woodblock carver, honing his skills before transitioning to painting and establishing himself as a respected member of the Utagawa school, arguably the most influential force shaping visual culture at the time. Early Life & Training: Little is known…