Ashi Clam, from the series Genroku Kasen Kai-awase - Katsushika Hokusai
Archival giclée
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Description
A refined surimono woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai, featuring cranes by the shore and integrated poetry from the Genroku Kasen Kai-awase series.
This woodblock print is a fine example of surimono, a genre of privately commissioned prints often distributed among poetry circles in Edo-period Japan. As part of the series Genroku Kasen Kai-awase, or 'Genroku-era Poetic Shell Contest', the work combines visual imagery with kyoka, a form of humorous or satirical waka poetry. The print features a group of cranes gathered near a shoreline, with stylized waves and reeds providing a backdrop. The inclusion of the shell motif in the fan-shaped cartouche serves as a thematic link to the series title, which references the traditional game of shell matching.
Katsushika Hokusai demonstrates his mastery of composition and line through the delicate rendering of the cranes. Their forms are captured with precision, balancing the naturalistic observation of the birds with the decorative requirements of the surimono format. The colour palette remains restrained, relying on soft blues, greys, and earthy tones to maintain a sense of harmony. The calligraphic text integrated into the upper portion of the print functions as both a literary component and a visual element, balancing the weight of the birds below. The paper quality and the subtle application of pigments reflect the high standards of production associated with these private commissions. This print offers a glimpse into the sophisticated cultural life of the period, where art and literature were closely intertwined in the daily activities of the urban elite. The work remains a clear representation of Hokusai's ability to adapt his style to the specific demands of the surimono medium, prioritising elegance and technical refinement.
Return policy
Because every print is made to order, we don't offer change-of-mind returns, refunds or exchanges. If your order arrives faulty, damaged or incorrect, we'll replace it free of charge — just contact us within 48 hours of delivery. See our refunds page for full details.
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We ship worldwide, printing at the production hub nearest to your delivery address. Delivery times and costs vary by destination — you'll see the options available to you at checkout.
Manufacturing
Each print is produced to order using 12-colour giclée printing on FSC-certified archival paper. Designed in Britain and printed at your nearest production hub to reduce waste and speed up delivery.
Care and materials
Specific Features
Every Solis piece is made to order with archival, gallery-quality materials built to last.
- Museum-grade giclée printing for rich, fade-resistant colour
- Archival matte fine-art paper, FSC-certified
- Multiple sizes and framing options available
- Frames in black, natural wood, dark wood or white
- Framed prints arrive ready to hang
Care & Cleaning
To keep your artwork looking its best:
- Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
- Never use liquid cleaners on the print or canvas surface
- Keep in a dry, room-temperature space
- Handle prints with clean, dry hands
Materials & Sizing
Museum-grade giclée on FSC-certified archival matte paper, with framed and canvas options.
- Paper sizes: A4, A3, A2, A1, A0 and B2 (50×70 cm)
- Canvas: XS (20×30 cm) to Large (60×90 cm)
- Frames: black, natural wood, dark wood or white
Ashi Clam, from the series Genroku Kasen Kai-awase - Katsushika Hokusai
Artist Biography
Katsushika Hokusai
Throughout his prolific career, Hokusai produced thousands of prints, sketches and illustrated books. He continually reinvented his style and identity, even adopting over 30 different artist names as his work evolved. His bold compositions, innovative use of perspective and striking colour palettes redefined Japanese printmaking. Hokusai's famed series Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji showcases not just technical mastery, but a spiritual reverence for landscape and everyday life. His work depicted everything from serene rural scenes to mythological creatures and bustling cityscapes.
Hokusai's legacy transcended Japan, profoundly shaping Western art during the 19th century through the movement known as Japonisme. Artists like Monet, Van Gogh and Whistler drew direct inspiration from his compositions and sensibilities. Today, Hokusai is celebrated not only as one of Japan’s greatest artists, but as a bridge between Eastern and Western visual culture. His art continues to captivate modern audiences with its fluid lines, narrative depth and timeless exploration of the human connection to nature.
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