Color on paper fan
Signed Katsushika Hokusai, sealed Tokimasa
23.0�~49.5cm

Young Hokusai painted this scene from a common practice of New Years when beggars would visit homes and display their dancing monkeys in exchange for money and rice. The work is painted on a fan-shaped piece and is based on light shades which were common during the time. Hokusai portrayed people from all walks of life, changing his styles according to subject matter. This particular work is believed to be from his forties during early Bunka era (1804-1818).

*Click image for a further enlargement of this work.