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Original Hasui Woodblock: Bell Tower Okayama

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All Items: Vintage Arts:Regional Art:Asian:Japanese:Woodblock Prints: Pre 1950: item # 140771

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B & C   Antiques
P. O. Box 291
Derby, CT 06418
203-929-7312

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$895

Original Hasui Woodblock: Bell Tower Okayama
Framed original Japanese woodblock print by Hasui Kawase (1883-1957) entitled “Bell Tower in Rain -- Okayama,” published in 1947. Signed Kawase Hasui with red artist’s seal “sui” in the lower left hand corner. A black impression of the 6mm round hand-applied Watanabe publisher’s seal can be found in the lower right hand corner within the print’s image. This evocative afternoon scene depicts the traditional buildings around the Okayama bell tower. A single figure carrying an umbrella can be seen from behind walking between the buildings. A touch of red highlights the blooming flowers in the flower pots in the foreground.

Hasui is regarded as the foremost landscape print artist of the 20th century. He was renown for his scenes of everyday life, which he executed in a sophisticated yet simple manner. His work is distinguished by his fascination with light, climactic conditions and tranquility. Based on sketches he made during his travels through Japan, Hasui’s prints are characterized by their serenity of mood and flawless composition. He was the first woodblock print artist to be honored by the Japanese government with the prestigious title of “Living National Treasure.” Hasui’s work is in the permanent collections of the leading museums of the world. Most of his works were produced for the initiator of the Shin Hanga movement, Watanabe Shozaaburo. Landscape prints from the Shin Hanga movement were extremely popular and highly prized among collectors in Europe and America.

The workmanship in both carving and printing is very good. Skillfully executed changes of color shading ("bokashi") are seen throughout the print. Pristine condition, with excellent color and registration, and strong ink bleed through. No toning or fading; not mounted; only two tiny pinholes at far edge of left margin. We originally purchased this print in this decorative silvered bamboo-style frame, and we had it redone with acid-free double matting (silk outer mat) and backing, so it is ready to hang. Oban size image measures 14 ¼” x 9 5/8”, plus full margins. Frame measures: 20 ¾” x 15 ½”.



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