Modern Sumo Prints by Daimon Kinoshita - Born in Hokkaido Prefecture in 1946, Daimon Kinoshita worked as an illustrator before becoming active as a woodblock print artist in 1980. In 1985, the Nippon Sumo Association commissioned him to design a series of prints depicting sumo wrestlers to commemorate the opening of the National Sports Arena in Ryogoku. These woodblocks are done in the traditional manner of ukiyo-e prints, utilizing the skills of the artist and expert carvers and printers to create the final image. These lively subject are reminiscent of their 19th century counterparts, with bold figures rendered in strong outlines, striking classic poses inside or outside the ring. Many depict yokozuna or grand champion sumo wrestlers. These rarely seen modern sumo designs are popular with collectors and sumo fans alike. Using the Japanese woodblock tradition, Daimon Kinoshita creates memorable modern portraits of this ancient sport.
Special detail - Silver mica on the apron, dark gray mica background.
Artist - Daimon Kinoshita (born 1946)
Image Size - 14 3/4" x 9 7/8" + margins as shown
Condition - Excellent color and detail as shown. Small minor indent on white rope around waist.