Hokusai’s The Great Wave | Behind the Scenes

The Great Wave is on view now! 

Created nearly 200 years ago by Katsushika Hokusai as part of a series of prints featuring Tokyo’s iconic Mount Fuji, The Great Wave immediately captured the imaginations of its earliest viewers and has continued to captivate audiences across the world throughout the decades. With a bold linear design, striking juxtapositions, and simple use of color, the image depicts a monstrous cresting wave about to tumble atop several boaters. Even Mount Fuji—seen at a great distance in the center of the scene—appears fragile, about to be engulfed.

The powerful image has not only become beloved by fans around the world but has also influenced countless artists since its debut, including quite recently writer Gabrielle Zevin in her 2022 novel, Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow—this year’s pick for Chicago Public Library’s One Book, One Chicago. The novel’s two protagonists create a video game inspired by The Great Wave, in which players have to help a child lost at sea find their way back to their parents. The image, or rather a detail focused on the wave itself, also serves as the novel’s cover. 

The Great Wave has not been on view in the Art Institute galleries for five years because, like all prints, it is susceptible to light damage and must rest a minimum of five years between showings to preserve its colors and vibrance. Don’t miss the rare chance to see this popular print—on view now through January 6, 2025.

Learn more about Hokusai’s The Great Wave.