Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Katsushika Hokusai, ink, 1791
Untitled, by Katsushika Hokusai, ink, 1791

Untitled is an ink print by the Japonisme artist Katsushika Hokusai. It dates from 1791 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a woodblock print created by Katsushika Hokusai in 1791, featuring a seated figure in a landscape setting. The print is executed in ink and color on paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a man sitting on a barrel, dressed in bright red and green clothing with a green cape, holding a fan and a scroll. His serious expression and tall hat suggest a figure of importance or contemplation.

Technique & Style

Hokusai employed bold colors and simple shapes to convey a sense of movement and energy. The use of lines on the figure's clothing and the barrel creates a dynamic effect, while the limited shading techniques used contribute to the overall visual impact.

History & Provenance

The print is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Katsushika Hokusai

Artist

Katsushika Hokusai

Katsushika Hokusai spent his life in Edo, now Tokyo, where he drew and carved prints for a living.