From Library Journal
Supremely prolific and marvelously inventive, Hokusai, one of Japan's most famous artists, has left a body of work comprising almost 30,000 items. This volume, designed as a catalog to accompany an exhibition in London, gives us an overview of 13 drawings and 151 woodblock prints representing landscapes, amorous couplings, kabuki actors, and scenes of daily life in 18th-century Japan. Although the biographical introduction is short, each artwork has an ample explication to place it in the context of Japanese society and Hokusai's oeuvre. The superb quality of the color reproduction on acid-free paper makes this an excellent complement to Richard Lane's more comprehensive Hokusai: Life and Works (Dutton, 1989). Recommended for all libraries.- David McClelland, Temple Univ. Lib., PhiladelphiaCopyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.


New York Times, J. Russel
"Mr. Forrer proves himself a sure guide."


Print Collector's Newsletter
"Hokusai devotees will be pleased with the high quality of color reproductions in this volume"


J. Russell, New York Times
"Mr. Forrer Proves himself a sure guide."


Print Collector's Newsletter
"Hokusai devotees... will be pleased with the high quality of color reproductions in this volume."


Book Description
Hokusai was one of the great masters of the Japanese woodblock print. His exquisite compositions and dynamic use of color set him apart from other printmakers, and his unequalled genius influenced both Japanese and a whole generation of Western artists. Now available for the first time in paperback, this book reproduces the artist's finest works in plates that convey the full variety of his invention, each of which is provided with an authoritative commentary.


From the Publisher
In his introduction, Hokusai expert Matthi Forrer traces the artist's career and defines his place in relation to his contemporaries and to the history of Japanese art. Examining all genres of the artist's prolific output - including images of city life, views of Mount Fuji, bird and flower illustrations, literary scenes, waterfalls and brdiges - "Hokusai: Prints and Drawings" provides a detailed account of the artist's genius.

FROM OUR EDITORS

This edition showcases the work of master printmaker and artist Hokusai. With nearly 200 color reproductions of Hokusai's works, including "The Great Wave" and other famous prints, Hokusai: Prints and Drawings is an extensive, superb collection of pieces by one of Japan's most renowned artists. The accompanying text introduces readers to the subtleties of each work, providing contextual information and technical details of the piece's creation. The stunning prints exemplify Hokusai's extraordinary skill, imagination, and even humor, allowing readers to glimpse aspects of life in 18th-century Japan in vivid color and detail. The intricate landscapes -- full of brooding mountains, gnarled trees, serene bridges, and delicate flowers -- invoke a sense of peaceful introspection and that invites the reader to sit back and truly contemplate the prints.

FROM THE CRITICS

Library Journal