<b>PORTRAIT OF PREMIER TAKEO FUKUDA</b> / Kiyoshi Saito1967<b>SOLD</b></em>

Details

Kiyoshi Saito was honored with two commissions from Time Magazine to produce cover designs for their magazine intended for distribution in Asia. The first commission was in 1967. This design is the second, executed for Time’s March 28, 1977 issue. It features Japan’s Premier, at the time, Takeo Fukada. This striking design showcases Saito’s skillful use of woodgrain, a stylistic element found on his most successful late-period works. What at first blush looks natural is actually Saito’s woodcarving skill at work. None of the woodgrain in the design is natural but is carved by the artist to mimic a natural woodgrain pattern. This effect is particularly noteworthy as it is a deliberate stylistic decision that builds and unifies the image as well as providing emotional depth.

It’s no coincidence Saito choose pronounced woodgrain elements for this bold design. The use of woodgrain is a centuries-old technique in Japanese printmaking and has become closely associated with an inherently Japanese aesthetic. This magazine cover and the article contained therein, “The Selling of Japan,” were attempts to highlight and represent Japan’s rich artistic tradition. What better way to convey this visually, in a contemporary setting, than by showcasing a woodblock print of the Japanese Premier with such an inherently traditional Japanese aesthetic?

Connoisseur's Note

This Saito design is among his most scarce works produced, executed in an edition of 8 impressions. All prints of the design were given away—some went to Japanese government officials, others to members of the royal family. Saito kept one copy for himself, which now resides in the Saito Museum in Fukushima. This copy comes directly from the Tokyo news bureau chief for Time Magazine when the print was featured. This impression, edition number 7/8, was Time Magazine’s sole copy.