Woodblock Print

This is a Woodcut Print in the Sosaku Hanga style, executed in 1961 by the Japanese artist Kihei Sasajima. The print is signed and numbered. We have a coordinating piece by Sasajima available for separate purchase. The ink used is a deep black, and the paper upon which it was impressed is an off white. The piece was custom framed and is double-matted with beveled edges. The frame is a mottled pewter/gumetal hue, and has a subtle oil-drop pattern.

Woodblock printing was invented in China under the Tang dynasty, and eventually migrated to Japan in the late 700s. For his part, in 1959 Sasajima developed a new printing technique. Drawing upon the Japanese method of stone rubbing, he used a press to push the paper deeper than previously practiced into the wood block, and then applied ink on the raised areas. This technique gave his works a sense of three-dimensionality, and an embossed texture.

This piece measures 31 inches wide, and 25.75 inches high. It is approximately a half inch deep. There are some light brown marks on the surrounding edging, and some light yellowing of the paper. Overall, this piece is in very good condition. Please see photos.