Katsushika Hokusai
This print belongs to the super-famous series of woodcuts entitled Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, which depicts the mountain in every season and type of weather and from different perspectives. This view of Mount Fuji and its reflection in the placid lake can be seen from Misaka Pass, reached by the Isawa road, which branches off the main road to Edo. Hokusai balanced the composition by placing the mountain slightly to the right and its reflection to the left. The lone fisherman in his boat enhances the serenity. Ironically, the reflection of Mount Fuji shows a snow-capped peak, an element missing from the mountain itself. The two views of the mountain perhaps represent two seasons, with the traditional and more familiar view being the image in the water. This pictorial trick encourages the viewer to focus on the reflection.
P.S. Check out more of Hokusai's series of views of Mount Fuji!
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