Ito Shinsui - Born in Tokyo, Ito Shinsui studied Japanese painting and began designing woodblock prints for the publisher Watanabe Shozaburo in 1916, with whom he collaborated until 1960. He is best known for his lovely shin-hanga images of beautiful women. These elegant and refined beauties are drawn with graceful line work and softly colored backgrounds. Recognized for his artistic achievements, the Japanese government declared Shinsui an "Intangible Cultural Property" in 1952, and he received the "Order of the Rising Sun" in 1970. His works are a wonderful choice to collect or display.

Fuji Arts’ special acquisition from Momose - This print is from a beautiful group of limited edition prints recently acquired from the archives of the publisher, The Momose Print Company of Tokyo. We purchased the entire balance of the publisher’s limited-edition inventory of all designs. They are only available on the secondary market and have become increasingly difficult to find. The prints were originally offered in a shin-hanga limited edition promotion from Momose. The Shinsui and Kaburagi beauties were sold for 280,000 yen each (approx. $2,750).

Beauty of Ancient Times - Lovely shin-hanga beauty portrait of a beauty from earlier times, holding her sleeve to her chin as she looks ahead. Her golden orange kimono is patterned with clematis blossoms and leaves, tied with an olive green geometric print obi. The figure is beautifully set off by a shimmering mica background. Published by Momose around the time of the artist's death as part of a small group of woodblock designs based on Shinsui's paintings. The edition was limited to 300, and the print comes with the original numbered certificate.

Publisher - Momose
Numbered - 192/250

Artist - Ito Shinsui (1898 - 1972)

Image Size - 14 7/8" x 18" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A few creases. Please note, due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled. Please see photos for details.