Views of Japan - Published in 1922 by Kanao Tanejiro of the respected publisher Bunendo in Tokyo, Hiromitsu Nakazawa's "Views of Japan" (Nihon Taikan) comprised 50 lovely images of Japan, mostly around Kyoto and Osaka. The genre of "sketch-tour books" became popular in Japan in the early 20th-century, and this is one of the finest examples. Nakazawa's designs reflect the modern sensibilities of the shin hanga or new print movement that emerged in Japan in the early years of the 20th century. Printed in soft colors, these works have a lovely watercolor feel to them, an effect difficult to achieve in woodblock and reflecting the expert skills of the printer and engraver, Nishimura Kumakichi and Okada Seijiro. These lyrical and atmospheric scenes are beautifully drawn with fine delicate line work and wonderful detail. This series is also incredibly rare as the blocks and any unsold prints were destroyed during the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. A terrific opportunity to acquire a rare, pre-Kanto Earthquake shin hanga print from this attractive series.

Artist - Hiromitsu Nakazawa (1874 - 1964)

Image Size - 6 3/4" x 9 1/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Small tear at bottom edge, small thinning spot in margin, repaired. A few small spots, slight creasing at bottom edge. Please see photos for details. Good overall.