Hokusai and the Thirty-six Views of Mt. Fuji - In Japan, Mt. Fuji is a sacred place and a symbol of the country itself. Rising majestically near the center of Japan, Fuji dominates the landscape and the Japanese national identity. At the age of sixty-nine, the great Hokusai began what would become the most famous landscape print series of ukiyo-e, his incredible Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.

Originally intended to comprise thirty-six prints, the publisher added an additional ten images, bringing the series total to forty-six woodblocks. Originally published around 1830, Hokusai's bold compositions capture the strength, beauty, and symbolism of Mt. Fuji in rain and snow, at sunrise and dusk, and from a variety of vantage points. The series includes some of Hokusai's greatest masterpieces. These fantastic images portray the strength and majesty of nature, leading the viewer to contemplate man's place in relation to the natural world. A truly magnificent series, Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji justly remains Hokusai's most famous and highly regarded work.

Takamizawa's Red Fuji - This is the famous Takamizawa reprint of one of the most well known and sought after woodblock prints of all time. Hokusai depicts Mt. Fuji which is said to take on a red color in the early morning and around sunset. The original design was printed with blocks that had very recognizable wood grain on the mountain. Collectors and dealers used this marker as a first indication of authenticity. In the early 20th century Takamizawa created a beautiful, perfect replica of the print - including the recognizable wood grain. It was an impressive accomplishment for a publisher and these reprints became famous. Some even argued that the print was intended to be passed off as an original. These 20th century reprintings, by this master publisher, have become collectable in their own right and are rare these days. A terrific alternative to the original which would sell in the $50,000 range and up!

One of the most famous and sought after woodblock prints of all time. Fuji is said to take on a red color in the early morning and around sunset. This is especially noticeable on a summer day with the undulating clouds and a clear sky as shown here. The design is simple and an artistic masterpiece. This print, along with the Great Wave are thought to be the best prints of the series and the masterworks of Hokusai's career. A lovely printing with beautiful bokashi shading.

Artist - Hokusai (1760 - 1849)

Image Size - Print 10" x 15" + margins as shown; folder 18 1/2" x 13"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A few spots. Please see photos for details. Good overall.