Practice of Long-handled Sword 1817

"Practice of Long-handled Sword" is a woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai, created in 1817. The artwork features a series of eight figures demonstrating various techniques in the use of a long-handled sword. The print is characteristic of Hokusai's dynamic style, capturing the movement and energy of the figures as they train. This print is considered an example of ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art popular in the Edo period, which often depicted scenes of everyday life, as well as historical and legendary figures. Hokusai's artwork is celebrated for its artistic mastery and captures the essence of Japanese martial arts.