Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

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Umezawa Marsh, Sagami Province. The location appears to be present-day Ninomiya, a city near the coast of Kanagawa Prefecture between Kozu and Odawara. Shows a group of cranes in the foreground with two others flying off towards Fuji. From Hokusai’s most famous series: Fugaku sanju-rokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” The set of 46 prints published by Eijudo c 1830-32. This is one of the most admired designs from the set and one of the most difficult to find in early state ( like Kajikazawa ). Why this should be is not known: Perhaps they were popular at the time and the blocks wore quickly or softer wood was used. Alternatively, these also tend to be the designs that are printed almost solely in tones of blue and green, and they may have been the first to be designed to show off the new Prussian blue.

Fine, early impression with perfect colour and very full size. Slight centre fold, otherwise fine condition. Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu hitsu.

Status: Sold