View of an Afternoon Downpour at Mount Tenpo in Osaka

The opening of a new entertainment district in the city of Osaka was the occasion for the publication of a new print series, Famous Places in Osaka: Scenic Views of Mount Tenpo, in 1834. Three years before, workers dredging the Aji River for flood prevention and improved access to the harbor created an artificial mountain — dubbed Mount Tenpo. Planted with pine and cherry trees and boasting teahouses and other attractions, the area quickly became a popular holiday destination. Here Mount Tenpo’s tripartite peak rises above a long breakwater lined with pine trees. Dark storm clouds emit a driving rain, as a rough sea threatens to engulf a ship and sailors heave on the sail to guide it to safety.

The artist Gakutei trained under Totoya Hokkei (1780–1850), one of Katsushika Hokusai’s best students, and he may also have studied under Hokusai himself.