Professionally framed and matted by Radecki, Inc. South Bend, IN in a beautiful ornate frame with glass that measures 20" X 15" The signed signature has been carefully relocated on the back of the frame through a see-through window. See pictures.
This auction features a beautifully framed and matted authenticated 1933 Japanese woodblock print by the renowned artist Hiroshi Yoshida (1876-1950). Titled "Hayase," this stunning shin-hanga print depicts serene buildings set along a river in Hayase, Shizuoka, with delicate figures crossing a bridge visible through the blooming cherry blossom sakura tree branches.
### Key Details:
- **Artist**: Hiroshi Yoshida (Japanese, 1876-1950)
- **Title**: Hayase
- **Medium**: Japanese woodblock print
- **Era**: 1933
- **Dimensions**: Height: 9 1/2 in x Width: 14 1/2 in
- **Signatures**: Pencil signed by the artist; Signature relocated and displayed brilliantly on the back by framer.
- **Condition**: Very good pre-owned condition.
### Description:
"Hayase" captures a tranquil scene set in Shizuoka, with detailed buildings, a river, and a picturesque bridge framed by blooming sakura trees. The print is signed in plate along the lower right and titled in plate along the lower left, showcasing Yoshida's distinctive style.
### Provenance:
Hiroshi Yoshida is a pivotal figure in the renewal of Japanese printmaking post-Meiji period. Initially a painter, Yoshida transitioned to woodblock prints in 1920, collaborating with publisher Watanabe Shozaburo. After the 1923 earthquake destroyed his early works, Yoshida began overseeing his own print production, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship.
Yoshida's works are celebrated for their blend of traditional Japanese and Western artistic elements, reflecting his extensive travels and mountaineering adventures. His prints, like "Hayase," are vivid portrayals of landscapes and cultural scenes, merging cosmopolitan influences with inherent vitality.
### Background:
- **Early Life**: Born to an elementary school principal, Yoshida showed artistic talent early and attended a private art school in Tokyo.
- **Career Highlights**: Initially a prize-winning painter, he started woodblock printing in 1920. Post-1923, Yoshida produced his prints, closely supervising artisans and sometimes carving blocks himself.
- **Travel and Influence**: Yoshida traveled extensively, capturing scenes from the U.S., Europe, Africa, India, China, Korea, and Japan. His works reflect a love for travel and mountains, blending Japanese traditions with global perspectives.
- **Legacy**: Yoshida produced 259 woodblock prints, with the majority published independently. His sons, Toshi and Hodaka Yoshida, continued his artistic legacy.
- **Condition Notes**: Please review all pictures carefully. There is a small tear right in the center of the print. I see some light water staining in spots. See pictures.
This print is a testament to Yoshida's artistic mastery and is a must-have for collectors of Japanese art and woodblock prints. Don't miss out on owning this exquisite piece of art history.
**Please feel free to ask any questions you may have.**