Tsuchiya Koitsu, "Snow at Ukimodo, Katata"

This exceptional night scene by Tsuchiya Koitsu is a fine example of Koitsu's talent as a woodblock print artist. One of just a handful of designs created in collaboration with Watanabe Shozaburu, the composition shows Ukimodo (Mangetsu-ji) on the bank of Japan's Lake Biwa in a snowstorm. The soft details in the design and blue colors are calming while the spot of light from the lantern draws the viewer in. A rare, first-state printing!

Date: 1934
Size: Oban
Publisher: Watanabe Shozaburo
First-state
Condition: Excellent color and condition
Frame Shown: 16" x 24" x 1/2", Classic Wood, Ebony Walnut

Ito Takashi (1894-1982) is one of the many artists who published woodblock prints with Watanabe Shozaburo who has gained prominence in recent times for his idyllic landscapes. Takashi was a not a prolific woodblock print artist, but his works have proven to be popular and timeless.