<b>SPRING SNOW AT KIYOMIZU, KYOTO</b> / Kawase Hasui1929<b>SOLD</b></em>

Details

Snow scenes are among the most sought after designs in Hasui's oeuvre and in Shin Hanga. This design, Spring Snow at Kiyomizu, Kyoto, is one of a handful not published by Watanabe but by Doi Teiichi and happens to be among the best of these Doi designs. This exquisite print features two kimono-clad women with umbrellas enjoying the view of the snow from an iconic vantage point. This work's composition and atmospheric quality make it an icon of Shin Hanga and an excellent choice for the discriminating collector.

Connoisseur's Note

Collectors and connoisseurs of Japanese prints will tell you that an early impression is paramount. These early impressions, if in fine condition, will give you the exact idea the artist and the team of artisans strived to achieve. This impression of Spring Snow at Kiyomizu, Kyoto is a testimony to the heights of this achievement. The design depicts a snowy evening at Kiyomizu temple--a subject that is alone compelling--and as the viewer looks more closely this early impression's features sets itself apart from other impressions. Note the subtle bokashi (gradation of colors) found throughout the design--most notable on the mountain ridge at the top, the blue and white on the rooftops, the green and gold of the umbrellas and the gray on the lower left portion. This bokashi coupled with the natural woodgrain pattern in the night sky and razor sharp lines and shadows from the temple structure unfold into an atmospheric snow-globe-like-world all its own. This is the best impression of this design I've seen in 20 years.