Liezi in the Wind
c. 1810[-]1813
![Liezi in the Wind by Katsushika Hokusai, c. 1810[-]1813](https://www.thequadro.com/api/storage/artworks/thumb/l/katsushika-hokusai/katsushika-hokusai_liezi-in-the-wind_3d814c09)
Imagine trying to surf, but instead of water, you're riding a hurricane—that's what the Daoist sage Liezi is doing here. Hokusai, famous for his crashing waves, uses sweeping diagonal lines and swirling maple leaves to make the invisible wind feel incredibly powerful. The philosopher leans forward, seemingly struggling against the gale, his clothes flapping wildly in a display of masterful brushwork. It’s a playful take on ancient philosophy, proving Hokusai could make even a static hanging scroll feel like an action movie.
- Technique
- Ink and color on silk