Ito Shinsui, "Fireworks"

A bijin (beauty) in a summer kimono sits on a bamboo bench watching fireworks in the sky while clutching an uchiwa (flat fan) adorned with a wave pattern. A masterfully printed work from Ito Shinsui's rare and coveted bijin-ga prints. Limited to 250 impressions. 

Series: Second Collection of Modern Beauties
Date: 1932
Size: Oban
Edition: 34/250
Published by Watanabe Shozaburo
Condition: Light toning, otherwise excellent color and condition
Frame Shown: 16" x 24" x 1/2", Classic Wood, Clear Walnut

Ito Shinsui (1898-1972) is one of Japan's most important artists to emerge from the shin-hanga era. Along with his good friend Hasui Kawase, Shinsui's woodblock prints, especially his bijin-ga (prints of beautiful women), are iconic in their form and beauty. Many of his landscapes document his time away from Tokyo during World War II.