Leading up to the Wave
Katsushika Hokusai, famously known for his piece “The Wave off Kanagawa,” was a Japanese artist, ukiyo-e painter, and printmaker during the Edo period. Although having a long career, the importance of Hokusai’s works peaked after the age of 60. His largest known work was a 15-volume collection of Hokusai Manga, published in 1814. Hokusai was best known for his woodblock print series such as “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji,” this was the series where the iconic wave originated. His decision to depict Mount Fuji was mainly contributed due to his religious beliefs and tradition itself, he was a member of the Nichiren sect of Buddhism. Traditionally, Mount Fuji stands and symbolizes eternal life, it’s believed that a goddess has deposited an elixir for eternal life right at the peak.
The Great Wave off Kanagawa, ca. 1830–32
Hokusai’s Artistic Characteristics
His very distinct style, use of line and colour are notable to many. In the nineteenth century, his influences spread over to western cultures, reaching Europe to create what we know as Japonism. Japonism was a massive craze known for collecting traditional Japanese art. When the Europeans collected these prints, Hokusai had an impact on the Impressionist movement. His themes often contributed to the works of Claude Monét and Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
The Inume Pass in Kai Province, ca. 1831–32
The Wave Present Today
Hokusai’s work today is widely known, even by those who are nowhere near artists. Today, The Great Wave remains his most iconic work, often seen on clothing and posters. I, myself have seen the piece countless times before and have always admired it. Often when traditional Japanese art is mentioned, this is the very first one to come to mind, alongside the simplistic art style. As stated in Encyclopedia Britannica, “since the later 19th century, impressed Western artists, critics, and art lovers alike, more, possibly, than any other single Asian artist.”
“Umezawa Manor in Sagami Province,” ca. 1830–32
Sources
https://www.katsushikahokusai.org