In the twilight of his life, Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849) embarked on a profound artistic journey, culminating in the creation of One Hundred Views of Mount Fuji (Fugaku Hyakkei, 富嶽百景). Sometimes referred to by the poetic alternative title Mount Fuji in the Mists, this three-volume series of woodblock-printed illustrated books stands as a testament to Hokusai’s enduring fascination with Mount Fuji (富士山 Fujisan), reflecting both his artistic evolution and spiritual introspection.
Beyond Landscape: Imagination and Immortality
Whereas Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji grounded the mountain in real locations across Edo-period Japan, One Hundred Views of Mount Fuji journeys inward into Hokusai’s imagination. Rather than portraying Fuji in recognizable settings, this series offers symbolic, fantastical, and spiritual interpretations.
Dragons coil beneath the summit, sacred deities make appearances, and surreal visions of the mountain emerge through clouds, waves, and myth. The opening of Volume I features the mountain as a divine axis rather than a geographic landmark.
By this stage in his life, Hokusai—working under the name “Manji,” or “Ten Thousand”—was deeply preoccupied with the themes of longevity and artistic legacy. He even incorporated a stylized Fuji into his seal, suggesting his view of the mountain as a personal emblem of eternity.
These books are not merely topographic studies, but expressions of a lifetime spent in pursuit of artistic transcendence.
A Trilogy of Devotion
One Hundred Views of Mount Fuji comprises three volumes, each offering a unique perspective on the iconic mountain:
- Volume I (初編, Shohen) – 1834
- Published by: Nishimuraya Yohachi (Eijudō)
- Contents: 23 double-page and 2 single-page illustrations
- Total pages: ~50 (including preface and text)
- Volume II (二編, Nihen) – 1835
- Publisher: Nishimuraya Yohachi
- Contents: 23 double-page and 2 single-page illustrations
- Total pages: ~50
- Volume III (三編, Sanpen) – c.1849
- Published by: Eirakuya Tōshirō of Nagoya (posthumous publication)
- Contents: 21 double-page and 2 single-page illustrations
- Total pages: ~46
Each volume employs a monochromatic palette, emphasizing the purity of form and the meditative quality of the subject matter. These books are a profound fusion of image and thought, a visual expression of Hokusai’s late spiritual and philosophical ideals.
Hokusai created volumes 1 and 2 when he was 75-76 years old. He signed them Hokusai Iitsu aratame gakyo rojin Manji hitsu (formerly Hokusai Iitsu who changed his name to Manji).
Notable Illustrations and Themes
Hokusai’s series transcends mere landscape depiction, intertwining Mount Fuji with various facets of Japanese life and folklore:
A Dragon Rising From the Sea: A scene where a mythological creature similar to a dragon rises from the water around Mount fuji.
Pilgrims Journey to Mount Fuji: Depicts the mountain in the background with a group of pilgrims in the foreground.
Fuji Appearing Between Waves: Echoing the composition of The Great Wave off Kanagawa, this illustration presents a serene vision of Fuji framed by undulating waves, highlighting the mountain’s enduring calm amidst chaos.
These works reflect Hokusai’s deep engagement with themes of impermanence, resilience, and the sublime.
You can view volume 1 and 2 at the Metropolitan Museum’s online archive.
Pilgrimage and the Fuji-kō Cult
Throughout the series, Hokusai includes depictions of pilgrims and devotees, often portrayed as small figures dwarfed by the grandeur of Mount Fuji. These images resonate with the practices of the Fuji-kō cult, a religious movement that venerated the mountain as a sacred entity. Pilgrims, known as Fuji-kō, undertook journeys to ascend Fuji, seeking spiritual purification and enlightenment. Hokusai’s illustrations capture the humility and devotion of these individuals, emphasizing the mountain’s role as a spiritual beacon.
Publication and Legacy
The One Hundred Views of Mount Fuji series was initially published in the 1830s, with the third volume released posthumously. The first two volumes were produced by Nishimuraya Yohachi (Eijudō), a leading publisher of the time, while the third was published by Eirakuya Tōshirō of Nagoya. These publishers played a crucial role in shaping Edo-period visual culture, bringing Hokusai’s mature vision to a wide audience.
In recent years, these volumes have garnered significant attention in the art market. For instance, a complete set sold at Christie’s New York in March 2019 for $87,500. Such sales underscore the enduring appreciation for Hokusai’s work and its cultural significance. The rarity of complete sets—especially those including Volume III—adds to their desirability among collectors.
Hokusai’s Crowning Achievement
One Hundred Views of Mount Fuji stands as a crowning achievement in Hokusai’s illustrious career, encapsulating his artistic mastery and spiritual depth. Through meticulous line work and evocative imagery, he invites viewers to contemplate the profound connection between humanity and the natural world. As we reflect on these works, we are reminded of the timeless allure of Mount Fuji and the enduring legacy of Hokusai’s vision.
For further exploration of Hokusai’s transformative journey and artistic evolution, refer to our previous article: Hokusai Was Not One Artist, But Many: A Life in Ukiyo-e Transformation.
Featured image at top of the book by The Met Museum.
Read more:
- How Prussian Blue Changed the Face of Ukiyo-e
- The Symbolism of Koi in Zen and Japandi Interiors
- Sanreizan: Three Holy Mountains That Shape Japanese Art and Belief
- Why Did Hokusai Move Over 100 Times During His Life?
- The Ultimate Guide to Hiroshige’s Sudden Shower Over Shin-Ohashi Bridge and Atake
At The Art of Zen we carry a selection of our own hand-crafted original Japanese art prints in the ukiyo-e and Japandi style. Some of our best selling work is Mount Fuji wall art and Japandi wall art.
Add some zen to your space with brilliant original art from the Art of Zen shop.
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