Liezi in the Wind c. 1810 - 1813

"Liezi in the Wind" is a hanging scroll by Katsushika Hokusai, created between 1810 and 1813. The painting depicts the legendary Chinese philosopher Liezi in a dynamic pose, seemingly carried away by the wind, his robes billowing around him. This work showcases Hokusai's masterful use of ink wash, with the bold, sweeping strokes depicting both the powerful wind and the philosopher's effortless movement. The background features sparse red leaves, symbolizing autumn and the ephemerality of life, a recurring theme in Hokusai's art. The scroll exemplifies Hokusai's stylistic experimentation and is a testament to his enduring influence on Japanese art.