Japanese Woodblock Print, 1950s published by Uchida Art Company

SIZE IN INCHES: chuban, 8.5 x 11.5 inches

SADANOBU HASEGAWA (1914-1999) was a twentieth century Japanese painter and printmaker, Sadanobu Hasegawa belongs to a famous family of woodcut artists. During the past several centuries it has not been uncommon for either sons or students of Japanese artists to acquire their master's name and continue on in their footsteps. Sadanobu I (1809-1879) came from Osaka and was a traditional ukiyo-e woodcut designer. His son, Sadanobu II, continued to create woodcuts during the Meiji era. In the next generation Sadanobu III (1881-1962) designed woodcuts of Kabuki actors and beautiful women. Most of his work was commissioned by Uchida in Kyoto. Uchida was one of the largest woodcut publishers in Japan from the Shin Hanga era (1920-1950s) to recent times. Unlike the woodcuts of his father, Sadanobu's art is thoroughly modern. Utilizing brilliant contrasts of white and black, Sadanobu has here created a brilliant study of form and texture. Most of Sadanobu's woodcuts, including this original example, were published by Uchida.

Fine, with original folder