<b>WORK 74-66 (PERSIMMON)</b> / Haku Maki20th Century$950</em>

Details

It may be a surprise to know that Haku Maki was enlisted in a special squadron of Kamikaze pilots during the Second World War. Fortunately, Japan's surrender occurred before a mission was assigned to him. After the war, Maki served as a Vice Principal at an elementary school. Despite his formal position, Maki's longing for the creative arts may have summoned a chance to meet with the Sosaku Hanga artist Koshiro Onchi. Under Onchi's direction, the burgeoning artist received the inspirational sustenance and encouragement to produce artwork that pushed the boundaries of both the technical aspects of printmaking and accepted artistic subjects. As a result, Maki developed a highly innovative printmaking process of chiseling woodblocks and cement molds, which created deep embossing (raised reliefs) into the paper that provided his calligraphic-inspired designs a compelling three-dimensionality previously unseen in the medium.

This work showcases Maki at the height of his artistic strength. The composition features a bold yet carefully rendered persimmon set against a black matte background. The branches and accompanying leaves the persimmons hold onto are rendered in a glossy black finish and executed in a raised relief, adding texture and a subtle pop of movement toward the viewer. The composition is striking and subtle, charged with traditional Japanese poetics of wabi/sabi.

Connoisseur's Note

The persimmon motif was one of Maki’s most popular designs and continues to be among his most sought-after works. This impression is in excellent condition with sharp and vivid colors. The matte background remains unblemished, as scuffs are usually found in these works.