36 Views of Mount Fuji, Barrier Town on the Sumida River, Katsushika Hokusai, Japanese Print

Barrier Town on the Sumida River utilises much more muted and organic tones. Browns, reds and light blues tend to dominate the piece and it is interesting that much of the background remains devoid of any tones. It is also thought that this approach may have been a result of his strong religious beliefs; particularly later in life. As witnessed in many of his other works, a view of Mount Fuji is clearly visible in the background.

Not only does this symbolise Japan as a whole, but it is representative of his strong Buddhist beliefs. The fact that the three characters displayed within the painting seem to be travelling toward the base of the mountain could be interpreted as his own desire to become closer to his own sense of spirituality. While not as famous as his other works, Barrier Town on the Sumida River is certainly representative of the sheer talent of this prolific painter.

Hokusai created the “Thirty-Six Views” both as a response to a domestic travel boom and as part of a personal obsession with Mount Fuji. It was this series, specifically The Great Wave print and Fine Wind, Clear Morning, that secured Hokusai’s fame both in Japan and overseas. As historian Richard Lane concludes, “Indeed, if there is one work that made Hokusai’s name, both in Japan and abroad, it must be this monumental print-series”. While Hokusai’s work prior to this series is certainly important, it was not until this series that he gained broad recognition.

All prints are made using archival art stocks and UV pigment inks to give up to 200 years life. Choose from unframed, framed and mounted and canvas panel options.