‘The Great Wave off Kanagawa’

Katsushika Hokusai’s (1760-1849) ‘Great Wave’ (1832) is the most famous work of art from Japan and has much meaning including
- a powerful representation of nature’s beauty and untameable immense force contrasted with human fragility,
- the fleeting nature of life and
- the enduring symbolism of the sacred Mount Fuji as a stable symbol of hope.

During the time of its creation in the Edo period 1608-1868, Japan was in a state of national seclusion and strict protectionism. Ukiyo-e became the most important artistic style, focusing on the colourful world of festivals, pleasure and luxury.

The dynamic and powerful ghostlike army of claws of the menacing wave overshadowing the three helpless tiny fishing long boats could be interpreted as a metaphor for the outside world, a force of change to be both feared and a connection to the wider world, represented by the new Prussian blue pigment from Europe.

With the end of isolation in 1860 ‘Japonism’ enabled the exchange of artworks with America and Europe. Numerous famous painters were fascinated by the exotic Japanese art including Van Gogh, Gauguin, Klimt and Monet. So our search for Hokusai ‘The Great Wave off Kanagawa’ bowls and plates intensified.Baca selengkapnya