In ensuring that his 3D LEGO replica not only paid homage to the original but also captured the dynamics of crashing waves, Jumpei Mitsui says he read several academic papers on giant wave formations, as well as spent hours on YouTube watching video of waves. He then created the sketch below, which was used to create the final model.

Mitsui LEGO sculpture is currently on display at the Hankyu Brick Museum in Osaka, a space dedicated to showcasing the works of Jumpei Mitsui, Japan’s only certified professional LEGO block builder.