<b>ADAM AND EVE</b>Sadao Watanabe1980<b>SOLD</b></em>

Details

Sadao Watanabe dedicated his entire career to producing prints illustrating the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. Though the subjects of his prints may be familiar, Watanabe utilized his unique talent of stencil production mixed with Japanese aesthetic sensibilities to create a new and compelling vision of these time-honored stories.

Adam and Eve kneel, transfixed by a serpent whose form is intertwined with a small tree that flourishes before them. The bright fruit hangs directly overhead—at an arm’s reach—beckoning with a seductive luster. All the while, both figures are depicted with the wide-eyed bewilderment of children. At the center, the tempting serpent is shown with the upper torso of a disarming human form directing its attention toward Eve. Adam’s outstretched hand demonstrates both curiosity and caution, while Eve’s left hand holds the weight of the red fruit. 

Watanabe’s skillful use of Japanese stencil invokes a fresh vision of this familiar tale. The simplicity inherent to this medium grants the design a seemingly naive quality that provides the composition with much of its psychological power. The bright and vivid colors encased in bold black outlines echo the charm of stained-glass windows.

Connoisseur's Note

This composition is one of Watanabe’s most successful large-scale stencil prints. Among the artist's work, Old Testament designs are the most sought after, and Adam and Eve prints represent the pinnacle of this demand. This impression is made that much more desirable by its excellent condition with fresh and vibrant colors.