Katsushika Hokusai, "Fuji in a Dream"

A famous proverb states then when Mt. Fuji, a falcon, and an eggplant appears in the first dream of the New Year it would bring good luck. Although the symbolism is auspicious, Hokusai depicts these three things in a less than auspicious way: the falcon successfully hunting a pheasant amidst the tangle of eggplant leaves. Fuji is the only thing clearly visible in this mesmerizing design.

Hokusai’s seminal work “100 Views of Mount Fuji” (Fugaku hyakkei) was originally published as a three volume ehon (picture book) starting in 1834 and into the 1840s. Devoid of any meaningful color, the 102 designs contained in the monochrome woodblock printed books are considered by many to be his masterpiece. Rare and highly coveted, Tokaido Arts is pleased to offer a small selection of pages excavated from disassembled volumes from the second edition.

All prints are sent matted 14” x 18”, with or without frame

Series: 100 Views of Fuji
Date: c. 1860s
Size: Two-panels panel (each image approx. 5” x 8”)
Publisher: Eirakuya Toshiro
Condition: Excellent condition and impression
Shown in 14” X 18” x 1/4” Modern Metal, Black Frame

Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) is an icon in the world of Japanese art, design, and woodblock prints. So much has been written about his life as an artist, and his art, making his woodblock prints some of the most treasured in the world.