Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Katsushika Hokusai, ink, 1799
Untitled, by Katsushika Hokusai, ink, 1799

Untitled is an ink painting by the Baroque artist Katsushika Hokusai. It dates from 1799 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Subject & Meaning

Its composition and symbolic elements convey spiritual narratives, aligning with the broader tradition of Buddhist visual representation in Japanese painting.

The work Untitled (1799) is a Japanese ink and colored paper painting that falls within the religious genre. It portrays Buddhist iconography associated with a saintly figure, reflecting devotional themes common in the Edo-period art of the period. The piece was produced in Japan and is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, where it is catalogued as a religious artwork.

Its composition and symbolic elements convey spiritual narratives, aligning with the broader tradition of Buddhist visual representation in Japanese painting.

Technique & Style

Created in 1799, this work by Katsushika Hokusai is executed in ink and color on paper, serving as a support for religious imagery depicting Buddhism and a saint. The piece measures 28.4 cm in height and 22.2 cm in width. Classified as a painting within the genre of religious art, it originates from Japan.

The combination of ink and pigment on paper reflects the traditional materials and handling techniques characteristic of the artist's output during this period. The formal qualities are defined by its specific dimensions and the depiction of sacred figures, aligning with the stylistic conventions of Japanese religious painting from the late eighteenth century.

Overview

This untitled painting by Hokusai, rendered in ink and color on paper, depicts a solitary saint. The figure is shown seated on a rock beneath a tree, clad in a simple robe. The composition emphasizes a sense of tranquility and introspection, characteristic of spiritual subjects in Japanese art. The work exemplifies Hokusai's approach to capturing a moment with minimal yet expressive detail.

Untitled
Untitled, Katsushika Hokusai

Artist & collection

Portrait of Katsushika Hokusai

Artist

Katsushika Hokusai

Katsushika Hokusai spent his life in Edo, now Tokyo, where he drew and carved prints for a living.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by Katsushika Hokusai in 18th–19th century.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Metropolitan Museum of Art.

What movement is Untitled?

Untitled is associated with Baroque.