Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) is one of the best-known ukiyo-e (floating world) painters and print makers of the Edo Period (1603-1867). His most famous series of prints, "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji," includes the internationally acclaimed "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" and "Fuji in Clear Weather."
He was also known for humorous depictions of people, powerful visions of nature and landscapes, as well as entertaining interpretations of folklore and the supernatural.
Hokusai's work influenced many later artists, including Kawanabe Kyosai (1831-1889), a member of the Kano School of art, whose prints of humorous figures of dancing skeletons and personified frogs, and other scenes are often compared to Hokusai's work.
This exhibition, which includes sketches from "Hokusai Manga," explores the works of Hokusai and Kyosai, both of whose influences have contributed to the world of contemporary manga; till June 26.
Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum of Art; (03) 5777-8600; 1-10-10 Jingu-mae Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; Harajuku Station, JR Yamanote Line. 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. ¥1,000. Closed Mon. (except April 29, May 6), April 30, May 7, 27-30. www.ukiyoe-ota-muse.jp
