"Whaling Off Gotō" from Oceans of Wisdom

"Whaling Off Gotō" is a woodblock print from Katsushika Hokusai's series "Oceans of Wisdom," created in the early 19th century. This dynamic composition captures the intense drama of a whaling expedition near the Gotō Islands off the western coast of Kyushu, Japan.

The print showcases Hokusai's masterful ability to depict the power and movement of the sea. In the foreground, a massive whale breaches the surface, its dark body contrasting sharply with the foaming waves. Japanese whalers in small boats surround the creature, their harpoons poised for action.

Hokusai's signature style is evident in the stylized waves, reminiscent of his famous "Great Wave off Kanagawa." The sea is portrayed with curling, claw-like waves that create a sense of turbulence and danger.

The background features a distant shoreline, likely representing the Gotō Islands, rendered in Hokusai's characteristic minimalist style. The sky is filled with dynamic cloud formations, adding to the overall sense of energy and movement.

This print not only demonstrates Hokusai's artistic prowess but also provides a glimpse into the traditional whaling practices of Japan, capturing a moment of man versus nature in a visually striking and culturally significant manner.

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• To meet the diverse needs of our customers, we offer frames in various sizes and aspect ratios. Our artists will adjust and optimize the composition based on the size chosen by the customer, ensuring the best possible display effect for each unique piece.