Hasui Kawase, "Benten Pond"

The pond at Benten Shrine in Tokyo's Ueno Park is covered with lotus leaves and a popular place for locals. In this design by Hasui Kawase, two women are seen on a small footbridge amidst the pond filled with blossoming lotus leaves. A beautifully detailed and exquisitely printed composition. Printed from the original blocks, this later edition print was published by Shobisha, who acquired the blocks in the 1930s from the original publisher, Sakai and Kawaguchi.

Date: 1929
Size: Oban
Published by Shobisha
Later edition
Condition: Fine
Frame Shown: 16" x 24" x 1/2", Classic Wood, Clear Walnut

Hasui Kawase (1883-1957) is one of Japan's most important artists to emerge from the shin-hanga era. His prints are recognized throughout the world, with many of his woodblock prints elevating to icons of art and design.