Superb Showa period ukiyo-e by Sekino Jun’ichiro (1914-1988) circa 1950, “Eizo and Matsu-o-maru - Bunraku”.

*Please contact us regarding shipping quotes for this item prior to purchase*

Here we have a superb Showa period ukiyo-e woodblock print by Sekino Jun’ichiro (1914-1988) circa 1950, titled “Eizo and Matsu-o-maru - Bunraku”. Considered one of his masterpieces, he produced editions of this woodblock print between 1948 to 1958, with this particular edition being Number 12 of 50. Each edition would be hand-printed and published by Sekino, and each piece subtly different.

He was known to meticulously carve textures into woodblocks to create a textural effect to each impression, creating a rich and subtle variation of tone. His work, which seamlessly melds Eastern and Western art styles, is highly desirable as one of the great masters of the shin-hanga tradition.

Part of his Bunraku puppet series, this particular piece depicts master puppeteer Yoshida Eizō holding a puppet of medieval warrior Matsu O Maru.

Several institutions have editions of this masterpiece in their collections, including the Harvard Art Museum and The Art Institute of Chicago; a later edition circa 1953 is listed online at $2800 USD.

Price marked at $2500 AUD.

Art Measurements: 60.5 by 49cm.

Framed Measurements: 84.5 by 69cm

Very good vintage condition with issues commensurate with ukiyo-e prints of this period (which were published under harsh postwar conditions); some foxing and discolouration, mat burn and mild insect damage to lower margin. Artist’s hanko in lower right corner, inscribed to lower left and right corners. Displays excellently.