The 10 Most Famous Artworks of Katsushika Hokusai

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Katsushika Hokusai, (葛飾 北斎, c. 31 October 1760 – 10 May 1849) known simply as Hokusai, was a Japanese artist, ukiyo-e painter and printmaker of the Edo period. Hokusai is best known for the woodblock print series Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji which includes the internationally iconic print The Great Wave off Kanagawa.

Hokusai created the monumental Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji both as a response to a domestic travel boom in Japan and as part of a personal obsession with Mount Fuji. It was this series, specifically The Great Wave off Kanagawa and Fine Wind, Clear Morning, that secured his fame both in Japan and overseas. While Hokusai’s work prior to this series is certainly important, it was not until this series that he gained broad recognition.

niood lists the 10 most famous artworks of Hokusai:

1. The Great Wave at Kanagawa

The Great Wave off Kanagawa (神奈川沖浪裏, Kanagawa-oki nami ura, “Under a wave off Kanagawa”), also known as The Great Wave or simply The Wave, is an iconic woodblock print created by the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai in the early 19th century. It is the first and most renowned piece in Hokusai’s series of prints, Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, which showcases the majesty of the iconic mountain from various perspectives and settings. The Great Wave, with its extraordinary composition and masterful use of color, has become an emblematic symbol of Japanese art, transcending its cultural and geographical origins to captivate audiences worldwide.

The Great Wave is celebrated for its exceptional representation of the force and beauty of nature. In the foreground, a gigantic wave looms, its powerful, frothy tendrils poised to crash down upon the tiny boats below. The intricately detailed wave is depicted using a limited color palette, with Prussian blue being the dominant hue, highlighting the contrast between the natural elements and the human struggle against them. In the distance, the serenity of Mount Fuji stands in stark contrast to the tumultuous seas, its snow-capped peak appearing almost as another wave on the horizon, further emphasizing the contrast between the mountain’s tranquility and the ocean’s ferocity.

The influence of The Great Wave off Kanagawa can be seen in numerous aspects of art and popular culture, as it continues to inspire artists, designers, and illustrators around the globe. The print’s distinct aesthetic has been adapted and reinterpreted in various forms, including fashion, graphic design, and even tattoos. Its enduring appeal is a testament to Hokusai’s artistic genius and his ability to capture the imagination of viewers across centuries and continents.

2. Fine Wind, Clear Morning

Fine Wind, Clear Morning, also known as “Red Fuji,” is a famous woodblock print created by the renowned Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai in the early 19th century. The print is part of a series known as Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji and depicts the majestic mountain rising above a sea of clouds. In the foreground, a small boat can be seen navigating the calm waters of a bay. The print captures a sense of serenity and awe-inspiring beauty, with the mountain serving as a symbol of Japan’s natural majesty.

Hokusai’s Fine Wind, Clear Morning has become one of the most iconic and recognizable works of Japanese art. The composition’s simplicity and elegance have made it a popular subject for artists, photographers, and designers around the world. The print has been reproduced countless times in various forms, from calendars and postcards to t-shirts and tattoos. The enduring popularity of Fine Wind, Clear Morning is a testament to the universal appeal of its message of tranquility and harmony with nature.

For Hokusai, Mount Fuji was a symbol of his homeland and a source of inspiration throughout his career. His Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji series allowed him to explore the many moods and perspectives of the mountain, and Fine Wind, Clear Morning is considered one of its most sublime representations. The print captures the essence of Japan’s natural beauty and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the environment for future generations to enjoy.

3. The Ghost of Oiwa from One Hundred Ghost Tales

Hokusai’s The Ghost of Oiwa is a striking and haunting piece from the iconic series One Hundred Ghost Tales (Hyaku Monogatari), which masterfully captures the chilling spirit of Japanese folklore. Katsushika Hokusai, a prominent ukiyo-e artist from the Edo period, is widely known for his innovative and unique style, which combined intricate detail with a powerful use of color. The Ghost of Oiwa showcases Hokusai’s skill as an artist, as well as his deep understanding of Japanese ghost stories and the emotions they evoke. This artwork is inspired by the Yotsuya Kaidan, a famous kabuki play and ghost story, which centers around the tragic life and vengeful spirit of Oiwa.

In this piece, Hokusai masterfully captures the eerie atmosphere of the Yotsuya Kaidan by portraying the ghostly figure of Oiwa, an ill-fated woman betrayed by her husband. The spectral image of Oiwa looms large, with her grotesquely disfigured face and unkempt hair, exuding an air of vengeful malevolence. The striking use of color, particularly the contrast between the deep indigo of the background and the pale blue of Oiwa’s ghostly figure, accentuates the unnerving presence of the spirit. Hokusai’s exquisite attention to detail is evident in the intricate patterns on Oiwa’s kimono and the delicate portrayal of her disheveled hair, which further adds to the chilling atmosphere of the scene.

The Ghost of Oiwa serves as a visual reminder of the powerful emotions that ghost stories can elicit, particularly feelings of fear, guilt, and vengeance. Hokusai’s work not only captures the essence of traditional Japanese folklore but also demonstrates his ability to evoke a deep sense of unease.

4. Dream of the Fisherman’s Wife

“Dream of the Fisherman’s Wife” is a famous Japanese erotic artwork created by artist Hokusai in 1814. The artwork depicts a woman, believed to be a fisherman’s wife, being sexually pleasured by two octopuses. The artwork has sparked controversy and discussion for centuries, as it explores themes of sexuality, power, and taboo desires. The graphic nature of the artwork has led to it being censored and banned in some societies, while others view it as a masterpiece of erotic art.

The artwork is a prime example of the shunga genre, which was popular in Japan during the Edo period. Shunga art focused on eroticism and sensuality, often depicting explicit scenes of sexual encounters. The fisherman’s wife in Hokusai’s artwork is shown in a state of intense pleasure, with her eyes rolled back in ecstasy. The octopuses, traditionally seen as a symbol of transformation and change in Japanese culture, are depicted as sexually aggressive and dominant, further complicating the power dynamics at play.

Despite the controversy surrounding “Dream of the Fisherman’s Wife,” the artwork remains a significant piece of Japanese art history. It has been referenced in popular culture, from anime and manga to contemporary art exhibits. The artwork continues to inspire discussions on sexuality, censorship, and the role of art in challenging societal norms.

5. Phoenix

Hokusai’s Phoenix is a woodblock print created by the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai in the early 1830s. It is part of a series of prints called “One Hundred Birds,” which depicts a variety of birds in various settings. The Phoenix, also known as the “immortal bird,” is a mythical creature that is believed to rise from the ashes after death. It is a powerful symbol in Japanese mythology and is associated with renewal, rebirth, and regeneration.

In Hokusai’s print, the Phoenix is shown in mid-flight, with its wings spread wide and its head turned to the side. The feathers are meticulously detailed, and the body is portrayed in shades of red and orange, evoking the fiery nature of the bird. The print is visually striking, and the Phoenix’s majestic presence is felt through its powerful stance and vibrant colors. The artwork has been interpreted as a representation of the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth.

Hokusai’s Phoenix is a testament to the artist’s mastery of the woodblock printing technique. The print showcases Hokusai’s attention to detail, his use of color, and his ability to capture the essence of the Phoenix’s mythological power. The artwork remains a popular choice for art collectors and enthusiasts, and it is often exhibited in museums and galleries around the world. The print’s timeless message of renewal and regeneration continues to resonate with audiences today, making it an enduring masterpiece of Japanese art.

6. Hokusai Manga

The Hokusai Manga (北斎漫画, “Hokusai’s Sketches”) is a collection of sketches of various subjects by the Japanese artist Hokusai. Subjects of the sketches include landscapes, flora and fauna, everyday life and the supernatural. The term “manga” was originally used to describe Hokusai’s collection of drawings, which were intended as a reference book for artists and included a wide range of subjects, from landscapes and animals to portraits and scenes from everyday life. The Hokusai Manga has since become an iconic example of Japanese art, and it remains an influential work in the history of art and illustration.

The Hokusai Manga was published in several volumes between 1814 and 1878, and it contains over 3,000 images. The sketches are known for their lively and playful quality, with Hokusai demonstrating his mastery of various techniques, including cross-hatching, shading, and perspective. The sketches also reflect Hokusai’s fascination with the natural world and his interest in capturing the beauty and diversity of everyday life in Japan.

The Hokusai Manga has had a significant impact on the world of art and illustration, both in Japan and beyond. The collection has influenced generations of artists, including manga and anime creators, and it has inspired countless works of art across various media. The Hokusai Manga is a testament to the power of observation, creativity, and imagination, and it continues to captivate audiences with its beauty, charm, and wit.

7. Whaling Off Goto, Oceans of Wisdom

“Whaling Off Goto, Oceans of Wisdom” is a woodblock print created by the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai in the early 19th century. The print depicts a group of men on a whaling ship, engaged in the dangerous and demanding work of hunting and killing whales. The artwork showcases Hokusai’s mastery of the woodblock printing technique, with intricate details and rich colors bringing the scene to life.

The print is part of a series called “Oceans of Wisdom,” which explores various aspects of the sea and its inhabitants. The series reflects Hokusai’s fascination with the natural world and his appreciation for the power and beauty of the ocean. In “Whaling Off Goto,” Hokusai captures the danger and excitement of whaling, as well as the harsh realities of life at sea.

Despite its graphic subject matter, “Whaling Off Goto, Oceans of Wisdom” remains an important work of art and a testament to Hokusai’s technical skill and artistic vision. The print serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between humans and nature, and it prompts viewers to consider the ethical implications of activities such as whaling. The artwork has been widely exhibited and studied, and it continues to inspire conversations about the environment, culture, and art.

8. The waterfall in Ono on the Kisokai-road, A Tour of the Waterfalls of the Provinces

“The waterfall in Ono on the Kisokai-road, A Tour of the Waterfalls of the Provinces” is a woodblock print created by the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai in the early 19th century. The print is part of a series called “A Tour of the Waterfalls of the Provinces,” which showcases various waterfalls throughout Japan. In this particular print, Hokusai depicts the Ono waterfall, located on the Kisokai-road in present-day Gifu prefecture.

The print is notable for its use of perspective and depth, as well as its vibrant colors and intricate details. The waterfall is shown in the foreground, cascading down the rocks and creating a misty spray. In the background, a group of travelers can be seen making their way up the mountain path, with trees and foliage surrounding them. The artwork captures the natural beauty of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape, evoking a sense of serenity and awe.

“The waterfall in Ono on the Kisokai-road” is a testament to Hokusai’s skill as a landscape artist and his ability to capture the essence of Japan’s natural beauty. The print has been widely celebrated and is considered one of the artist’s most iconic works. It has been referenced in various forms of media, from traditional Japanese poetry to contemporary art and design. The print continues to inspire artists and nature enthusiasts alike, serving as a reminder of the importance of preserving and appreciating the natural world.

9. Cranes from Quick Lessons in Simplified Drawing

“Cranes” is a series of sketches created by the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai as part of his instructional guide, “Quick Lessons in Simplified Drawing.” The series showcases Hokusai’s skill as a draftsman and his ability to capture the essence of the majestic bird. The sketches are characterized by their simple, elegant lines and their focus on the crane’s distinctive features, such as its long neck, curved beak, and graceful posture.

Hokusai’s “Cranes” series is a testament to the artist’s commitment to education and his desire to share his knowledge and expertise with aspiring artists. The sketches are part of a larger collection of instructional guides that Hokusai created throughout his career, with topics ranging from perspective and composition to figure drawing and portraiture. The guides were intended to help artists improve their skills and develop their own unique style.

Despite their instructional nature, the “Cranes” sketches are also works of art in their own right. The simple yet elegant lines of the sketches highlight the beauty and grace of the crane, while also demonstrating Hokusai’s mastery of the art of drawing. The sketches have been widely exhibited and studied, and they continue to inspire artists and nature enthusiasts alike, serving as a reminder of the beauty and complexity of the natural world.

10. Tenma Bridge in Setsu Province

“Tenma Bridge in Setsu Province” is a woodblock print created by the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai in the early 19th century. The print is part of a series called “Famous Bridges in Japan,” which showcases various bridges throughout the country. In this particular print, Hokusai depicts the Tenma Bridge, located in present-day Osaka prefecture.

The print is notable for its use of perspective and its depiction of everyday life in Japan during the Edo period. The bridge is shown in the foreground, with merchants and travelers crossing it. In the background, a temple and a cityscape can be seen, with mountains in the distance. The artwork captures the bustling energy of the bridge and the surrounding area, evoking a sense of vibrancy and liveliness.

“Tenma Bridge in Setsu Province” is a testament to Hokusai’s skill as a landscape artist and his ability to capture the essence of Japan’s urban and rural environments. The print has been widely celebrated and is considered one of the artist’s most iconic works. It has been referenced in various forms of media, from traditional Japanese literature to contemporary art and design. The print continues to inspire artists and travelers alike, serving as a reminder of the beauty and diversity of Japan’s cultural landscape.