A Fusion of Horology and Artistry Pays Homage to Japanese Master Katsushika Hokusai
In a celebration of the enduring cultural exchange between Asia and Europe, Jaeger-LeCoultre, the esteemed Maison, introduces two mesmerizing Reverso Tribute enamel timepieces in homage to the legendary Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai. The latest additions, adorned with meticulously crafted reproductions of Hokusai’s woodblock prints, The Waterfall at Ono on the Kisokaido Road and The Waterfall Where Yoshitsune Washed his Horse at Yoshino in Yamato Province, showcase the unparalleled expertise of the Manufacture’s Métiers RaresTM atelier.
Continuing Tradition: A Tapestry of Asian Motifs
Since its inception, Jaeger-LeCoultre has embraced Asian motifs and incorporated Eastern decorative crafts into its timepieces. This rich tradition, spanning over two centuries, is once again brought to life in 2023 with the release of two Reverso Tribute enamel models paying homage to Katsushika Hokusai, an iconic figure in 19th-century Japanese art.
A Journey Through Ukiyo-e: Hokusai’s Vision on Reverso
The chosen works, part of Hokusai’s series “A Tour of the Waterfalls of the Provinces,” depict breathtaking landscapes discovered during his two-year exploration of Japan’s main island, Honshu, from 1831 to 1833. The master artisans at Jaeger-LeCoultre have previously paid tribute to Hokusai’s works, with the 2021 model featuring the Kirifuri waterfall and the 2022 model showcasing the Amida waterfall. The 2023 releases extend this homage, capturing the essence of nature intrinsic to La Grande Maison’s spirit.
Hokusai: Master of Innovation in Ukiyo-e Painting
Katsushika Hokusai’s influence on the ukiyo-e genre is unparalleled. Renowned for transforming the narrow focus of 19th-century Edo Japan’s merchant class into a broader genre, Hokusai introduced landscapes, plants, and animals into his repertoire. The Reverso Tribute enamel models celebrate his innovative approach, showcasing The Waterfall at Ono and The Waterfall at Yoshino.
Capturing Nature’s Majesty: The Artistic Narratives
The Waterfall at Ono immortalizes a famous site in Nagano Prefecture, emphasizing the power of falling water through a straight vertical line. The composition reflects Hokusai’s animistic beliefs, where remarkable physical phenomena indicate the presence of a Shinto god. The Waterfall at Yoshino, on the other hand, narrates an episode from the life of General Minamoto no Yoshitsune, expressing the force of water passing through a tree-lined valley.
Artistry in Miniature: Meticulous Craftsmanship
The Reverso case-backs feature miniature paintings executed using the Geneva technique, involving 14 layers of enamel fired at 800°C, totaling 80 hours of meticulous work. The enameller faced the challenge of reproducing Hokusai’s original colors and details on a scale one-tenth of the original. Hand-written captions on microscopic cartouches add a touch of authenticity, capturing the emotional resonance and soul of the original artist.
Craftsmanship Beyond Expectations: Guillochage and Enamel
The front dials of the watches, with their faceted appliqué hour-markers, Dauphine hands, and chemin-de-fer minutes track, exude simplicity that belies the complex craftsmanship involved. The guillochage, executed by hand, adds another layer of intricacy. The Waterfall at Ono features a barleycorn design, while the Waterfall at Yoshino boasts a lozenge pattern, each requiring hours of painstakingly accurate work.
A Noble Addition: Reverso Tribute Enamel Timepieces
Embodying La Grande Maison’s vision of the world of art and culture, the Reverso Tribute Enamel timepieces stand as a testament to the boundless scope of the Reverso as a canvas for creative expression. These watches not only capture the beauty and power of Hokusai’s masterpieces but also serve as a bridge between the horological and artistic worlds, inviting enthusiasts to embark on a journey through the exquisite tapestry of Japanese artistry.