Shiro Kasamatsu, "Great Lantern at Kannon Temple, Asakusa"

The large lantern greeting visitors at Kannon Gate leading to Zojoji Temple in tourist heavy Asakusa is one of Japan's most famous sites. In this first-state print by Shiro Kasamatsu, visitors to the gate and lantern are shown wearing a mix of traditional Japanese clothing with Western style. A wonderful peek into pre-war Japan.

Date: 1934
Size: Oban
Published by Watanabe Shozaburo
Early, first-state printing
Condition: Toning, otherwise very good color and condition
Frame Shown: 16" x 24" x 1/2", Classic Wood, Clear Walnut

Shiro Kasamatsu (1898-1991) began his artistic career during the shin-hanga period and would go on to produce some of Japan's most recognizable woodblock prints. Starting in second-half of the 20th century, Shiro would go on to carve, print, and publish his own prints, making him an influential artist in the sosaku-hanga movement as well.