In the article “One Collector’s High Mountain Road to Hokusai,” the author introduces Jitendra V. Singh, a retired professor from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, who spent 30 years fulfilling his dream of collecting all 46 woodblock prints in Katsushika Hokusai’s renowned series, “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji.” Fascinated by Hokusai’s depiction of the sacred mountain, Singh embarked on a unique journey, trekking through the Himalayas and visiting Mount Everest and Mount Kailash in Tibet. Now, at the age of 70, he is auctioning off his prized collection at Christie’s with an estimated value of $3 to $5 million. Singh’s unwavering passion for mountains and admiration for Hokusai’s art highlight the profound connection between nature and artistic expression.
Collector’s Passion for Hokusai
Jitendra V. Singh’s journey as a collector
Jitendra V. Singh, a retired professor from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, has spent nearly three decades pursuing his passion for collecting Japanese woodblock prints. His fascination with the work of Katsushika Hokusai, particularly the renowned series “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji,” has been the driving force behind his collecting journey.
Fascination with Hokusai’s work
Singh’s interest in Hokusai’s work was sparked in 2013 when he acquired his first woodblock print from the “Thirty-Six Views” series. The print depicted the sacred Mount Fuji, which is a recurring motif throughout the series. Singh, having had multiple transformative experiences in the mountains himself, felt an immediate connection to Hokusai’s portrayal of the majestic peak.
Quest to assemble the entire ‘Thirty-Six Views’ series
Inspired by the power and beauty of Hokusai’s prints, Singh embarked on a quest to acquire each and every print from the “Thirty-Six Views” series. Determined to complete the collection, Singh dedicated years of research, networking, and meticulous searching to find and acquire the remaining prints.
Completion of the challenge
After a decade-long journey, Singh successfully assembled the entire “Thirty-Six Views” series in January 2023. The collection consists of 46 prints in total, exceeding the original number envisioned by Hokusai. Now, Singh prepares to share his accomplishment with the world as he plans to sell the complete set at Christie’s auction house.
The Artist: Katsushika Hokusai
Overview of Hokusai’s life and career
Katsushika Hokusai was a Japanese ukiyo-e artist and printmaker who lived during the Edo period of Japan. Born in 1760, Hokusai had a long and prolific artistic career that spanned over seven decades. He was known for his innovative and unconventional approach to printmaking, constantly pushing the boundaries of the medium.
Importance of ‘Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji’
Among Hokusai’s extensive body of work, the “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji” series stands out as his most iconic and influential collection. These prints, created between 1830 and 1832, depict Mount Fuji from various angles and perspectives, showcasing the mountain’s ethereal beauty and capturing the essence of Japanese landscapes.
Impact and influence of Hokusai’s work
Hokusai’s bold and dynamic compositions revolutionized the art of ukiyo-e. His use of vibrant colors, intricate details, and unique compositional techniques set him apart from his contemporaries. Hokusai’s work had a profound impact on the development of Japanese art and inspired generations of artists, both within Japan and abroad.
Exploring the ‘Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji’
Description of the series
The “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji” series comprises 46 woodblock prints, each measuring approximately 10 by 14 inches. The prints depict Mount Fuji from different vantage points, showcasing its majestic presence and the ever-changing nature of the surrounding landscapes. Hokusai’s masterful use of perspective and composition brings each scene to life.
Themes and motifs in the prints
While Mount Fuji is the central motif of the series, Hokusai also incorporated various thematic elements in his prints. Scenes of everyday life, iconic landmarks, and natural phenomena are skillfully interwoven, creating a rich tapestry of Japanese culture and traditions. Symbolism and metaphor are prevalent throughout the series, inviting viewers to contemplate the deeper meanings behind each image.
Importance of Mount Fuji in Hokusai’s work
Mount Fuji holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in Japan, and Hokusai recognized its symbolic significance. The mountain is often associated with transcendence, enlightenment, and the ephemeral nature of existence. By featuring Mount Fuji in his prints, Hokusai sought to capture these profound concepts and evoke a sense of awe and contemplation in the viewer.
Jitendra V. Singh’s Mountainous Adventures
Trips to the Himalayas
Singh’s deep connection with mountains is rooted in his personal experiences, particularly his trips to the Himalayas. Venturing into the world’s highest mountain range, Singh has embraced the physical and spiritual challenges of high-altitude trekking, immersing himself in the unique beauty and serenity of the Himalayan landscapes.
High-altitude trekking experiences
Having trekked on Mt. Everest and explored the Himalayan trails, Singh has gained a firsthand understanding of the hardships and joys associated with high-altitude trekking. The rugged terrains, breathtaking vistas, and close encounters with nature have shaped Singh’s perspective on life and deepened his appreciation for the mountains.
Journey to Mount Kailash in Tibet
Among Singh’s mountainous adventures, one of the most significant was his journey to Mount Kailash in Tibet. Considered sacred by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, Mount Kailash is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Singh’s pilgrimage to this revered mountain further solidified his connection to the spiritual significance of mountains and the artistic representation of their power.
The Essence of the Mountain
Dr. Singh’s connection to mountains
As a collector and a mountain enthusiast, Singh’s passion for Hokusai’s work goes beyond mere aesthetics. He recognizes a profound connection between his personal experiences in the mountains and the artistic representation of mountains in Hokusai’s prints. This shared connection amplifies Singh’s appreciation for the depth and resonance found in each print.
Why Hokusai’s work resonates with him
Hokusai’s ability to capture the essence of the mountain, both in its physical form and its symbolic representation, deeply resonates with Singh. The artist’s meticulous attention to detail, his exploration of the ephemeral nature of existence, and his celebration of the sublime beauty found in nature align with Singh’s own fascination and reverence for mountains.
Appreciation of Hokusai’s portrayal of Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, as depicted by Hokusai, represents more than just a mountain—it becomes a source of inspiration, contemplation, and spiritual elevation for both the artist and the viewer. Singh appreciates Hokusai’s ability to infuse his prints with a sense of awe and wonder, inviting viewers to embark on their own introspective journey through the power of art.
Collecting the ‘Thirty-Six Views’ Series
Difficulties and challenges faced by Dr. Singh
Acquiring all 46 prints from the “Thirty-Six Views” series presented numerous challenges for Singh. The prints are highly sought after, and finding authentic and well-preserved examples required extensive research and networking. Additionally, the scarcity of certain prints and the competitive nature of the art market made Singh’s quest all the more challenging.
Process of acquiring the prints
Singh’s journey as a collector involved building relationships with experts, dealers, and other collectors who had access to the prints he sought. He attended art auctions, visited galleries, and explored online platforms specializing in Japanese art to expand his network and uncover hidden treasures. Through patience, perseverance, and a deep passion for Hokusai’s work, Singh gradually acquired each piece in the series.
Excitement of completing the collection
The culmination of Singh’s decades-long quest came with the completion of the “Thirty-Six Views” collection in January 2023. Holding the entire series in his hands, Singh felt a profound sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. He now looks forward to sharing his collection with others and ensuring the legacy of Hokusai’s masterpieces endures for generations to come.
The Auction at Christie’s
Details of the upcoming auction
Singh’s complete set of the “Thirty-Six Views” series is set to be auctioned at Christie’s. The highly anticipated event will showcase the culmination of Singh’s life’s work and provide art enthusiasts and collectors an opportunity to acquire a comprehensive collection of Hokusai’s iconic prints.
Estimated value of the complete set
Valued between $3 million and $5 million, Singh’s collection represents not only a significant investment but also a rare and comprehensive assembly of Hokusai’s finest works. The estimated value reflects the rarity, historical significance, and artistic mastery present in each print.
Anticipation and expectations for the sale
Art collectors and enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the auction, recognizing the rarity and significance of Singh’s complete “Thirty-Six Views” series. As the first complete set to appear on the market in recent years, the sale is expected to generate substantial interest and potentially set a new benchmark for the value of Hokusai’s works.
Preserving Hokusai’s Legacy
Importance of collectors like Dr. Singh
Collectors like Dr. Singh play a crucial role in preserving and promoting the legacy of artists such as Hokusai. Through their dedicated efforts and financial investments, collectors ensure that these works of art continue to be appreciated, studied, and displayed for future generations.
Role of private collections in art preservation
Private collections, like Singh’s comprehensive “Thirty-Six Views” series, enrich the art world by providing curated insights into an artist’s body of work. These collections often serve as educational resources and sources of inspiration for scholars, artists, and the general public alike.
Implications for future generations
By assembling the entire “Thirty-Six Views” series, Singh has not only fulfilled a personal passion but has also made a significant contribution to the preservation of Japanese art history. His collection serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Hokusai’s genius and will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.
Appreciating Hokusai’s Artistic Genius
Analysis of Hokusai’s techniques and style
Hokusai’s artistic techniques and style set him apart as a master of ukiyo-e. His meticulous attention to detail, innovative use of perspective, and bold yet delicate brushwork showcase his technical prowess and artistic genius. Each print from the “Thirty-Six Views” series exemplifies Hokusai’s unique approach to printmaking and his ability to capture fleeting moments of beauty.
Influence on the development of Japanese art
Hokusai’s artistic contributions extend far beyond his own lifetime. His unconventional approach to composition, emphasis on nature, and exploration of symbolic themes laid the foundation for the subsequent development of Japanese art. Many later artists, such as Hiroshige and Van Gogh, were deeply influenced by Hokusai’s techniques and subject matter.
Continued relevance and popularity of Hokusai’s work
Despite the centuries that have passed since Hokusai created the “Thirty-Six Views” series, his works continue to captivate audiences around the world. The universal themes of beauty, transcendence, and the power of nature transcend time and culture, contributing to the enduring popularity and relevance of Hokusai’s art.
Inspiration from Hokusai’s ‘Thirty-Six Views’
Impact on other artists and designers
Hokusai’s “Thirty-Six Views” series has had a profound impact on subsequent generations of artists and designers. The innovative compositions, vibrant colors, and exploration of nature’s beauty have inspired countless creators to incorporate similar motifs and themes into their own works.
Incorporation of Hokusai’s motifs in contemporary art
Elements of Hokusai’s prints, such as Mount Fuji and the dynamic depiction of landscapes, continue to be utilized in contemporary art. These motifs serve as visual references and symbols, paying homage to Hokusai’s legacy while imbuing new artworks with a sense of familiarity and cultural resonance.
Legacy of the ‘Thirty-Six Views’ series
Hokusai’s “Thirty-Six Views” series has left an indelible mark on the art world and continues to be celebrated as an artistic and cultural treasure. The prints from the series not only depict the beauty of Mount Fuji but also capture the essence of Japanese culture, philosophy, and the enduring power of nature. As long as these prints are cherished and studied, Hokusai’s legacy will live on.
