As can be expected with Hasui, a stunning night view under the full moon along the Arakawa river. A woman carrying a child passes by a quaint cottage while fishermen float down the river in a small boat. The night sky with the moon and clouds are so stunning, it takes a concerted effort to explore the details found elsewhere in the piece.
The Woodblock Print
This oban-sized woodblock is in excellent condition. Great color and impression, intact margins, and a clean verso. A stunning Hasui woodblock with strong colors and detail, while also still retaining the visible wood grain.
About the Artist
One of the most sought-after Japanese printmakers, and perhaps the most recognizable shin-hanga landscape artist. Kawase Hasui (川瀬巴水, 1883-1957) was born to a textile dealer as the first son. His uncle was Kanagaki Robun, a famous playwright. A pupil of Kaburaki Kiyokata who gave him the go of “Hasui”. Afterwards, he got to know Watanabe Shozaburo, then had a chance to see “Omi Hakkei” created by Ito Shinsui from the same school as his, which brought about an interest in the woodblock printing. In 1918, he released three pieces of “Shiobara” from Watanabe Printshop, afterwards, produced a number of landscape prints throughout his life and is considered one of the greats of the Shin Hanga art movement in Japanese woodblock printing.
Notes when buying: Hasui woodblocks were printed and reprinted both during his lifetime and post-mortem. When evaluating a Hasui woodblock, it is important to look carefully at the publisher seal, which will give a rough approximation for when the print in question was published, which can then be compared to when that print was originally published. Learn more about recognizing Watanabe-published editions here.
