The early work of Friedensreich Hundertwasser (1928-2000) had a marked impact on the international art scene of the post-war avantgarde. This publication demonstrates the influence of Japanese art and philosophy on the work of Hundertwasser in the 1950s and early 1960s. It is the first juxtaposition of Hundertwasser's work and Japanese art, revealing a less well-known Hundertwasser, preceding much of his architectural work. Like many European artists in the 1950s who perceived the Far East as a new reference point for a more open concept of art, Hundertwasser sought inspiration from Taoism and Zen Buddhism. He was also fascinated by the Japanese woodcuts of Hiroshige and Hokusai. His early friendship with Akira Kito and also his marriage with his Japanese life partner in 1961 during his sojourn in Japan are further links which fuelled Hundertwasser's interest in Japanese art and culture.