Kiyoshi Saito - Kiyoshi Saito was one of the greatest masters of the "sosaku hanga" or "creative print" movement in Japan, which emphasized artist involvement in designing, carving, and printing the blocks himself, as the sole creator of his work. In 1951, Saito earned international recognition with an award at the first Sao Paulo Art Biennal. Saito is known for his use of simplified forms and refined color palettes, emphasizing texture and shape and utilizing the impression of the wood grain. These bold and somewhat abstract modern works are simple and direct, reducing nature to its essentials. Saito exhibited widely and his works are held in the collections of many international museums.

Comments - Handsome image of Katsura, Kyoto, looking out through a window with a shoji panel at left. The geometric shapes of the courtyard, buildings, and walkway are contrasted by the organic forms of the trees looming above the rooftops. The rectangular shape at right is enlivened with strong texture, and a subtle mica sheen suffuses the entire image, with pearly white in the shoji screen at left and silver in the courtyard and sky. A terrific, bold Saito design. We've seen this design offered elsewhere online for more than $1,400!

Signed - Kiyoshi Saito in black ink within image near lower left, with red artist's seal
Numbered - 61/80

Artist - Kiyoshi Saito (1907 - 1997)

Image Size - 14 7/8" x 20 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Tape remnants on reverse at edges from previous mounting. Slight toning, a few small spots, slight soiling and creasing at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.