Flatfish, Scorpion Fish, and Shells - Katsushika Hokusai
Archival giclée
Frames arrive ready to hang
Secure checkout
Made to order
Description
A refined woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai, featuring a detailed study of a flatfish, scorpion fish, and shells.
This woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai belongs to a series of chuban-sized works focusing on marine life. Hokusai, a master of the Ukiyo-e tradition, demonstrates his precision in capturing the physical characteristics of aquatic subjects. The composition features a flatfish positioned above a scorpion fish, accompanied by two shells at the base. The artist employs a minimalist approach, allowing the negative space of the paper to define the form of the flatfish, while the scorpion fish is rendered with darker, textured ink to suggest its mottled skin and spiny fins.
The print reflects the artist's interest in natural history, a subject that gained popularity in Japan during the Edo period. Hokusai avoids decorative excess, choosing instead to observe the anatomy of his subjects with scientific curiosity. The lines are clean and deliberate, typical of his mature style. The use of a limited colour palette, dominated by deep blues and the natural tone of the paper, directs the viewer's attention to the shapes and textures of the marine specimens.
This work is an example of the artist's ability to elevate everyday subjects into refined compositions. By stripping away the background, Hokusai forces an encounter with the creatures themselves. The print serves as a record of the diverse marine life found in Japanese waters, presented with the technical skill of a master printmaker. The subtle variations in line weight and the careful placement of the shells create a balanced arrangement that feels both immediate and timeless. It is a piece that rewards close inspection, revealing the economy of mark-making that defines Hokusai's approach to the natural world.
Return policy
Because every print is made to order, we don't offer change-of-mind returns, refunds or exchanges. If your order arrives faulty, damaged or incorrect, we'll replace it free of charge — just contact us within 48 hours of delivery. See our refunds page for full details.
Shipping
We ship worldwide, printing at the production hub nearest to your delivery address. Delivery times and costs vary by destination — you'll see the options available to you at checkout.
Manufacturing
Each print is produced to order using 12-colour giclée printing on FSC-certified archival paper. Designed in Britain and printed at your nearest production hub to reduce waste and speed up delivery.
Care and materials
Specific Features
Every Solis piece is made to order with archival, gallery-quality materials built to last.
- Museum-grade giclée printing for rich, fade-resistant colour
- Archival matte fine-art paper, FSC-certified
- Multiple sizes and framing options available
- Frames in black, natural wood, dark wood or white
- Framed prints arrive ready to hang
Care & Cleaning
To keep your artwork looking its best:
- Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
- Never use liquid cleaners on the print or canvas surface
- Keep in a dry, room-temperature space
- Handle prints with clean, dry hands
Materials & Sizing
Museum-grade giclée on FSC-certified archival matte paper, with framed and canvas options.
- Paper sizes: A4, A3, A2, A1, A0 and B2 (50×70 cm)
- Canvas: XS (20×30 cm) to Large (60×90 cm)
- Frames: black, natural wood, dark wood or white
Flatfish, Scorpion Fish, and Shells - Katsushika Hokusai
Artist Biography
Katsushika Hokusai
Throughout his prolific career, Hokusai produced thousands of prints, sketches and illustrated books. He continually reinvented his style and identity, even adopting over 30 different artist names as his work evolved. His bold compositions, innovative use of perspective and striking colour palettes redefined Japanese printmaking. Hokusai's famed series Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji showcases not just technical mastery, but a spiritual reverence for landscape and everyday life. His work depicted everything from serene rural scenes to mythological creatures and bustling cityscapes.
Hokusai's legacy transcended Japan, profoundly shaping Western art during the 19th century through the movement known as Japonisme. Artists like Monet, Van Gogh and Whistler drew direct inspiration from his compositions and sensibilities. Today, Hokusai is celebrated not only as one of Japan’s greatest artists, but as a bridge between Eastern and Western visual culture. His art continues to captivate modern audiences with its fluid lines, narrative depth and timeless exploration of the human connection to nature.
Why Choose Us ?
Damage-free delivery guarantee
Fast Shipping
Museum-Quality Materials
You May Also Like