Fine Wind, Clear Morning (Gaifū kaisei), also known as Red Fuji
Japanese Woodblock Print (Ukiyo-e), Nishiki-e (multi-colored print) on washi paper • Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849)
Style & Movement
Ukiyo-e (Edo Period), specifically the landscape genre (fūkei-ga)
Medium & Technique
Ink and color on paper; Woodblock printing. Employs bokashi (color gradation) in the sky and mountain, and intricate key-block carving for the forest at the base.
Creation Period
c. 1830–1832
Dimensions & Format
Oban size (approx. 25 x 37 cm), horizontal landscape format
Subject Description
A dominant, idealized view of Mount Fuji during late summer or early autumn when the mountain is bathed in the crimson light of the early morning sun. The composition is famously minimalist, featuring the volcano set against a deep blue sky with cirrocumulus 'mackerel' clouds. The lower slope is covered in dense forest (indicated by small dots), and the peak still holds traces of snow in its crevices.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good (depending on the specific impression). Visible center fold and slight fading of the blue pigments (Prussian blue) suggest an early-to-mid 19th-century pull.
Estimated Market Value
$500,000 - $1,500,000 USD (for high-quality early impressions)
Auction Estimate
$400,000 - $800,000 USD
Provenance History
Published by Nishimuraya Yohachi (Eijudō). Likely held by private collectors of Japanese prints; versions are found in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and British Museum.
Art Historical Significance
One of the most iconic images of Japan and a masterpiece from Hokusai's series 'Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.' It represents a shift in Ukiyo-e from figurative 'beauties' to landscape, influencing Western Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists through Japonisme.
Notable Features
Includes the title cartouche and signature 'Saki no Hokusai Iitsu hitsu.' This specific version shows the distinctive 'wood-grain' texture in the sky, characteristic of early manual printing pressure.
Condition Issues
Vertical center crease from album storage; slight pigment oxidation or fading in the red-brown mountain areas; minor foxing/toning of the paper especially along edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Mount using acid-free reversible hinges; keep in a light-controlled environment with UV-filtering glass; maintain stable humidity (45-55%) to prevent paper embrittlement.