Tokuriki Tomikichiro - Born in Kyoto, Tokuriki Tomikichiro spent his entire career in the city. After initially studying Nihonga or Japanese style painting, Tokuriki switched to woodblock prints in 1924. Although best known for his shin-hanga landscape prints, Tokuriki's real passion was sosaku hanga or creative prints. He enthusiastically promoted sosaku hanga, and set up his own publishing company called Matsuku after WWII to produce his designs as well as those of other artists. He taught block carving and wrote extensively on the subject of woodblock prints, while also exhibiting internationally. His modern sosaku hanga prints are expressive with bold line work and shapes, while his traditional shin-hanga views more closely resemble ink and wash paintings. Tokuriki successfully bridged these two major twentieth-century styles, and was highly influential in the development of younger artists.

Twelve Views of Kyoto - Tokuriki's handsome series "Twelve Views of Kyoto" depicts famous temples and sites around Kyoto throughout the year. From a serene view of the Golden Pavilion on a summer's day to a snowy day at Kiyomizu Temple in winter, these attractive designs showcase the beauty of Kyoto in the four seasons. Several designs feature interesting perspectives, such as looking up a pathway or through an entrance gate. Pencil signed "T. Tokuriki" within the image at lower left. We rarely come across images from this series, so if one appeals to you, bid now!

Artist - Tokuriki Tomikichiro (1902 - 1999)

Image Size - 11 1/8" x 9 5/8"

Condition - Excellent overall with no issues to report.