Katsushika Hokusai (October or November 1760 – May 10, 1849) was a renowned Japanese ukiyo-e painter and printmaker, best known for his iconic woodblock print series "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji" and the internationally famous print "The Great Wave off Kanagawa." Hokusai's work had a profound impact on both Japanese and Western art, and he is considered one of the most influential artists of the ukiyo-e genre. Here are some key points about Katsushika Hokusai:1. **Early Life**: Hokusai was born in the Katsushika district of Edo (now Tokyo), Japan. He adopted several names during his lifetime, with "Hokusai" being one of the most famous.2. **Artistic Training**: He began his career as an apprentice woodblock print artist in his early teens, studying under various masters in the ukiyo-e tradition. He demonstrated exceptional talent and quickly gained recognition for his skill.3. **Prolific Career**: Hokusai's career spanned several decades, and he produced a vast body of work, including paintings, woodblock prints, and illustrated books. His work covered a wide range of subjects, including landscapes, portraits, historical scenes, and erotica.4. **"Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji"**: This series of woodblock prints, created between 1830 and 1832, is one of Hokusai's most famous works. It features diverse and imaginative depictions of Japan's iconic Mount Fuji from various vantage points and under different conditions. "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" is part of this series.5. **"The Great Wave off Kanagawa"**: This woodblock print, from the "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji" series, is perhaps Hokusai's most recognized work. It depicts a powerful and towering wave about to crash down on three small fishing boats. The print has become an iconic representation of Japanese art and is celebrated worldwide.6. **Influence on Western Art**: Hokusai's art had a profound influence on Western artists, particularly the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists, including Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet. His use of color, composition, and depiction of nature had a lasting impact on these Western art movements.7. **Variety of Subjects**: Hokusai's artistic output extended beyond landscapes. He created vivid depictions of daily life in Edo, images of beautiful women, and illustrations for novels and poetry collections.8. **Late Works**: In his later years, Hokusai adopted the name "Gakyō Rōjin" (The Old Man Mad About Art) and continued to create art until his death at the age of 88. His later works often explored themes of nature, mythology, and the supernatural.9. **Legacy**: Katsushika Hokusai's legacy is far-reaching, and his work continues to be celebrated and studied today. His contributions to ukiyo-e and Japanese art, as well as his influence on Western art, have secured his place as one of the most significant artists in history.Katsushika Hokusai's ability to capture the beauty and dynamism of the natural world, combined with his innovative printmaking techniques, left an indelible mark on the world of art. His legacy lives on through his iconic prints and enduring influence on subsequent generations of artists.
Measures 17 x 26.

Good condition. No major rips, tears, etc.