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

Created in Japan, the piece presents the animal as its singular iconographic focus without additional narrative elements described in the available records.

The work depicts a fox, serving as the primary subject of this 1799 ink painting by Katsushika Hokusai. Created in Japan, the piece presents the animal as its singular iconographic focus without additional narrative elements described in the available records. As a representation of the fox, the image aligns with traditional Japanese artistic themes where the creature often symbolizes transformation or spiritual agency, though the specific symbolic intent remains defined strictly by the visual depiction of the animal itself.

Technique & Style

Created in 1799, this work by Katsushika Hokusai is an ink painting executed on paper. The piece measures 24.3 cm in height and 14 cm in width. Stylistically, the composition focuses on the depiction of a fox, rendered through the artist's application of ink.

The work originated in Japan and is currently held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

History & Provenance

Untitled (1799) is an ink-on-paper painting by Katsushika Hokusai, depicting a fox. Executed in Japan, the work measures 24.3 cm × 14 cm and is classified as a painting. The piece was created in 1799, as recorded in contemporary documentation.

Since its creation it has remained in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, where it is catalogued as part of the museum's holdings of Japanese artworks. No earlier owners or sale records are documented in the available sources.

Overview

Katsushika Hokusai's Untitled, created in 1799, is an ink-on-paper work that captures a moment in nature. This piece, characterized by its spontaneous execution, presents two foxes beneath a stark tree. Rather than a finished painting, it functions as a study or preparatory drawing, offering insight into the artist's observational skills and dynamic line work during this period.

Untitled
Untitled

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.