The Great Wave off Kanagawa, also known as “The Great Wave,” is a famous woodblock print by the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai. It is part of a series of prints titled “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji” and was created during the Edo period in the early 19th century. Here are key details about this iconic artwork:

1. Artist:
   • Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849) was a Japanese ukiyo-e painter and printmaker, considered one of the most important and influential artists of the Edo period.
2. Date of Creation:
   • “The Great Wave off Kanagawa” was created around 1831 during Hokusai’s later years. It is part of a series of prints depicting different views of Mount Fuji.
3. Medium:
   • The artwork is a woodblock print, a traditional Japanese printing technique where an image is carved into a block of wood, inked, and then transferred onto paper.
4. Subject:
   • The central theme of the print is a giant wave towering over three boats with Mount Fuji in the background. The wave is captured at the moment of breaking, its frothy crest forming a dynamic and powerful image.
5. Symbolism:
   • Mount Fuji, an iconic symbol of Japan, is featured in the background, appearing small compared to the massive wave in the foreground. The wave is often interpreted as a symbol of the awesome power of nature and the transient nature of human existence.
6. Composition:
   • The composition is dynamic, with the wave dominating the foreground and creating a sense of movement and tension. The use of contrasting colors, particularly the deep blue of the wave against the lighter background, enhances the visual impact.
7. Print Series:
   • “The Great Wave” is part of Hokusai’s larger series of prints that explores different perspectives of Mount Fuji in various seasons and weather conditions. The series showcases Hokusai’s fascination with the iconic mountain.
8. Influence on Western Art:
   • “The Great Wave” had a significant impact on Western art and has been widely admired and studied. Its influence can be seen in the works of many Western artists, particularly during the Japonisme movement in the late 19th century.
9. Popularity:
   • The print has become one of the most recognizable and iconic images in art history. It has been reproduced in various forms, including posters, prints, and other merchandise, making it globally renowned.

“The Great Wave off Kanagawa” is a masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences with its striking imagery and profound symbolism. Its enduring popularity has solidified its place as one of the most celebrated artworks in the world.