Introduction
Mount Fuji is a prominent and iconic subject in ukiyo-e art, and several prints featuring this majestic mountain have become widely celebrated and renowned. Some of the most famous Mount Fuji ukiyo-e art prints are:
1. Hokusai’s “The Great Wave off Kanagawa”
This woodblock print from Katsushika Hokusai’s series “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji” is arguably the most famous ukiyo-e print ever created. It depicts a towering wave about to crash over fishing boats with Mount Fuji in the background. Moreover, the print beautifully captures the power of nature and the enduring presence of the mountain.
2. Hokusai’s “Red Fuji” (aka “Fine Wind, Clear Sky”)
Another masterpiece from Hokusai’s “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji,” this print showcases Mount Fuji with a reddish hue against a clear blue sky. Most importantly, it’s a stunning example of Hokusai’s mastery in depicting the changing moods of the mountain.
3. Hiroshige’s “Sudden Shower over Shin-Ōhashi Bridge and Atake”
Created by Utagawa Hiroshige, this print is part of his series “One Hundred Famous Views of Edo.” While not exclusively focused on Mount Fuji, it includes a distant view of the mountain shrouded in mist as pedestrians rush to take shelter from a sudden rain shower. Above all, this print is celebrated for its atmospheric beauty.
4. Hokusai’s “Kajikazawa in Kai Province”
Another masterpiece by Hokusai, this print is part of his series “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji.” It portrays a snowy landscape with a solitary figure traversing a bridge, with Mount Fuji majestically framed in the background.
5. Hokusai’s “Fuji Seen from the Mishima Pass in Kai Province”
Also from Hokusai’s “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji,” this print offers a picturesque view of Mount Fuji seen from a mountain pass, with travelers in awe of the towering ancient cypress tree nestled in the landscape.
6. Hiroshige’s “The Sea at Satta in Suruga Province”
Finally, in this print from Hiroshige’s series “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji,” Mount Fuji is seen across the sea, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. It’s a serene and tranquil depiction of the mountain in the distance in contrast to the power of the sea’s waves in the foreground.
A Note on the Thirty Six Views of Mount Fuji
Both Hokusai and Hiroshige created their own versions of the Thirty Six Views of Mount Fuji series (Fugaku Sanjūrokkei). Hokusai’s series was produced from 1830 to 1832, at the prime of his career. Meanwhile, Hiroshige’s later series was produced in 1852 in the landscape orientation using the chūban (medium size) format, and later in 1958 in the portrait orientation using the ōban (large size) format.
Conclusion
These prints, among others, have left an indelible mark on the world of art and continue to be celebrated for their artistic excellence and their ability to capture the essence of Mount Fuji in various moods and seasons. They are treasured not only for their artistic value but also for their cultural significance in the rich tradition of ukiyo-e art.
And finally, here are the 10 Amazing Facts About Mount Fuji.
Looking to start collecting ukiyo-e art? Be sure to read our comprehensive guide: Collecting Ukiyo-e Art: A Guide for Beginners.
Read more:
- 9 Reasons for the Importance of Mount Fuji in Japanese Culture
- Where Can I Buy Ukiyo-e Art? Here’s where to find those rare prints
- The Iconic Power of The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Hokusai
- Why is Mt Fuji called Fujisan?
At the Art of Zen we have a wide selection of original Japanese style art prints in the ukiyo-e and Japandi style . Add some zen to your space with Mount Fuji wall art from the Art of Zen shop.
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