Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

"Foot of Mount Ashitaka" is a striking woodblock print created by the Japanese artist Hiroaki Takahashi, known for his beautiful landscapes and evocative use of light and shadow. This print, made in 1932, captures a serene rural scene at the base of Mount Ashitaka, an iconic peak in the region surrounding Mount Fuji.

The painting portrays a tranquil countryside with lush greenery in the foreground. The tranquility is punctuated by a gently winding path that leads the viewer's eye towards the majestic Mount Ashitaka, which stands tall in the background. The mountain is depicted with remarkable detail, its slopes covered with dense forests that fade subtly as they ascend towards the peak. This interplay of light and shadow on the mountain's surface creates a sense of depth and scale, amplifying the mountain's grandeur.

The sky above the mountain is a soft gradient of blues and whites, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon, times of day often associated with calmness and introspection. Wisps of clouds drift lazily across the sky, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. In the midst of this natural beauty, the artist includes a humble farmstead nestled among the trees, providing a glimpse into rural life and indicating the harmonious existence of humans within this serene landscape.

Hiroaki Takahashi, also known as Shotei, was an influential figure in the shin-hanga (new prints) movement, which sought to revitalize traditional Japanese woodblock printing with a modern sensibility. Active in the early 20th century, Shotei's works often feature serene landscapes, traditional architecture, and reflective scenes that capture the essence of Japan's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

"Foot of Mount Ashitaka" is emblematic of this movement, blending meticulous craftsmanship with a keen eye for natural beauty. Shotei's works fit seamlessly within the shin-hanga ethos by merging the ukiyo-e tradition's aesthetic with more contemporary techniques and a broader color palette.

This painting stands out in Shotei’s oeuvre for its detailed representation of Mount Ashitaka and its ability to convey a tranquil, almost meditative atmosphere. It exemplifies his skill in using color and composition to create a mood and capture the essence of a place.

Shotei's contributions to the shin-hanga movement were substantial, and his prints were highly praised both in Japan and internationally. His work in the early 20th century coincided with a time when there was renewed interest in traditional Japanese arts, both within Japan and abroad. His collaboration with publishers like Watanabe Shozaburo helped bring his art to a wider audience, and his prints became popular among Western collectors, further cementing his legacy.

The original woodblock prints by Hiroaki Takahashi, including "Foot of Mount Ashitaka," are highly sought after by collectors worldwide. Many of his works are housed in private collections and are occasionally displayed in exhibitions featuring shin-hanga works. Japanese art museums, such as the Tokyo National Museum or other institutions dedicated to ukiyo-e and shin-hanga art, might hold or exhibit his works periodically.

Due to the nature of woodblock prints which were produced in multiples, it’s not unusual to find different impressions of "Foot of Mount Ashitaka" in various collections around the globe, including reputable art museums and galleries dedicated to Japanese prints.

Overall, "Foot of Mount Ashitaka" is a testament to Hiroaki Takahashi's masterful ability to blend traditional Japanese art forms with contemporary techniques, preserving the timeless beauty of Japan's landscapes for future generations to appreciate.