The Great Wave off Kanagawa - Katsushika Hokusai
Archival giclée
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Description
A classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai, featuring a towering wave framing the distant Mount Fuji.
The Great Wave off Kanagawa is the most recognised work from Katsushika Hokusai's series, Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji. Produced during the Edo period, this woodblock print depicts a massive, claw-like wave threatening three oshiokuri-bune boats off the coast of Kanagawa. In the distance, Mount Fuji appears small and stationary, providing a visual anchor against the dynamic motion of the sea.
Hokusai employed Prussian blue, a synthetic pigment imported from Europe, to achieve the deep tones seen in the water. The composition relies on a geometric arrangement, where the curve of the wave frames the mountain. The foam of the wave breaks into droplets that resemble animal claws, adding a sense of aggression to the natural force. The sailors are shown crouching low, their bodies angled to match the rhythm of the swell.
This print demonstrates the technical precision of the ukiyo-e tradition. The artist used multiple carved blocks to apply colour, ensuring clean lines and distinct separation between the sea, the sky, and the mountain. The paper texture remains visible in the background, providing a subtle contrast to the bold, dark outlines of the wave. Hokusai captures a fleeting moment of tension, balancing the power of the ocean with the stillness of the volcanic peak. The work remains a primary example of Japanese printmaking, reflecting the technical mastery of the period.
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.
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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
The Great Wave off Kanagawa - 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.
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