The Great Wave off Kanagawa Print Value Guide

Katsushika Hokusai's 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa' is a cornerstone of the ukiyo-e genre, originally published between 1829 and 1833 as part of the 'Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji' series. Its dramatic composition and use of Prussian Blue revolutionized Japanese woodblock printing and profoundly influenced Western Impressionist masters.

What Is The Great Wave off Kanagawa Print Worth?

The typical price range for The Great Wave off Kanagawa Print is $100 - $300 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The age of the specific impression, with earlier 19th-century printings commanding significantly higher prices than later reproductions.
• The condition of the paper, specifically looking for signs of foxing, fading from UV exposure, or trimming of the margins.
• The quality and era of the frame, as vintage framing can add to the decorative value of the $100-$300 price range.
• Color vibrancy, particularly the preservation of the delicate pinks and yellows in the sky and boats.

How to Identify The Great Wave off Kanagawa Print?

• Look for the distinct 'Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji' title cartouche in the upper left corner of the print.
• Examine the paper for traditional Japanese washi texture rather than modern glossy or heavy cardstock.
• Identify the specific shade of Prussian Blue ink, which was a hallmark of Hokusai's original 19th-century color palette.
• Check for the presence of woodblock registration marks (kento) which indicate a traditional hand-printed process.

History of The Great Wave off Kanagawa Print

Katsushika Hokusai's 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa' is one of the most recognizable works of Japanese art. Created between 1829 and 1833 as part of his series 'Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji', this woodblock print depicts a massive wave threatening three boats, with Mount Fuji visible in the background. It is a masterpiece of ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th to 19th centuries, focusing on subjects like landscapes, theater, and pleasure quarters. The print's influence on Western art, particularly Impressionism, is profound, making it a significant piece in art history.