<b>UENO TOSHOGU</b> / Takahashi Hiroaki (Shotei)1924-1927</br></br>$1,800</em>

Details

The blooming of cherry trees in the moonlight beckons, and revelers of beauty answer the call with a stroll through Ueno Park. Hiroaki captures this scene with the power of a poet—seducing the viewer to engage more deeply with the composition. The subtle shadows cast by the moonlight mingle with a slight fog that sets the stage for light to meander through the composition with the ease of a cool breeze, lighting the path for the strollers within the composition and inviting the viewer to move deeper and deeper still within the design.   

Connoisseur's Note

The print is executed as a mitsugiri-ban composition, as evident by its relatively narrow format compared to the conventional oban size configuration. Hiroaki often utilized this format, as he was quite skilled at creating compositions that were enhanced by its distinct slender and protracted shape. In this design, the composition's long vertical cherry tree, stone lantern, and pagoda echo and harmonize with the verticality of the print's format.

This print's condition is exceedingly fine, as it was never framed nor exposed to light for prolonged periods. The colors are in a pristine state of preservation and appear as fresh and vibrant as the day the work was executed.