At second glance one may start to discover and unpack the various layers to this work as looking closely at the waves you'll notice the fishermen in 2 boats seemingly on the brink of destruction. At third glance you'll notice a significant yet cleverly hidden gem in plain sight, something most, including myself tend to miss. The peak of Mount Fuji. "The wave in the foreground and Mount Fuji in the background are symbols chosen not only to provide a perspective, but also to represent the unpredictability of life. Mount Fuji, on the other hand, signifies stillness and eternity; it is the symbol of Japan and, as a sacred object of worship, holds a significant place in Japanese beliefs." (Culture Trip) Once upon a time Japan was sealed off from most of the rest of world and any influence from Western culture was forbidden. It was during this period that Hokusai created this iconic artwork. He makes masterful use of juxtaposition and contrast, painting an all round picture in the viewers mind. Challenging and uplifting the viewers initial impressions, thoughts and emotions. On the one hand there is an overwhelming wave surging forward and at an all consuming scale yet, in the quiet distance cradling the horizon is the mighty mount fuji. A symbol of Japanese pride, patriotism and spirituality. This towering pillar of strength is completely dwarfed by the surging waves.