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

"Mount Fuji From Mizukubo," created in 1932 by Hiroaki Takahashi (also known as Shotei), is a captivating woodblock print that exemplifies the Japanese art tradition known as shin-hanga, a movement that sought to revive and redefine the ukiyo-e woodblock prints in the early 20th century.

In this serene and meticulously crafted composition, Mount Fuji is the mesmerizing focal point, emanating a quiet grandeur. The towering mountain, with its iconic snow-capped peak, dominates the mid-ground of the print, creating a sense of both monumental scale and tranquil beauty. The mountain is surrounded by arresting blue and green hues, depicting the lush forestry and intricate contours of the landscape.

The foreground features rolling hills, portrayed with delicate gradients of green and brown, suggesting foliage and fields. The sharpness of these hilly formations contrasts with the soft, almost ethereal depiction of the background. A small village rests quietly at the feet of the hills, with tiny, thatched-roof houses peeking through the trees, adding a sense of lived-in familiarity to the natural scene.

The sky above is a delicate, shifting tapestry of light pastels, where soft blues melt into gentle hints of pink and white, possibly indicating either a dawn or dusk scene. This ephemeral sky enhances the tranquility and poetic beauty of the depiction, contributing to the overall serene ambiance of the artwork.

Information about the Original Painting and the Artist

Hiroaki Takahashi, also known by his artist name Shotei, was a prominent figure in the shin-hanga movement, which was heavily influenced by traditional Japanese woodblock printing, yet sought to incorporate more realism and Western artistic techniques. Born in 1871 in Tokyo, Shotei's works are characterized by their lyrical landscapes and detailed, atmospheric compositions.

"Mount Fuji From Mizukubo" is a remarkable example of Shotei’s contribution to the shin-hanga movement. This print epitomizes the movement's principles: a reverence for nature, a focus on the everyday beauty of Japanese life, and the high technical quality of woodblock printing.

While the original print of "Mount Fuji From Mizukubo" might be part of private collections or specific Japanese art collections, it is significant in the context of Shotei's oeuvre and shin-hanga works held in public institutions. Museums such as the Honolulu Museum of Art and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston hold extensive collections of shin-hanga prints, including works by Hiroaki Takahashi.

Noteworthy Details of the Painting

1. Technical Mastery: The precision of woodblock carving and the subtlety of color application demonstrate Takahashi's exceptional technical prowess, made possible by the collaborative effort between the artist, carver, and printer.

2. Transcendence of Time: The painting not only captures a specific view of Mount Fuji but also evokes a timeless quality, transporting the viewer to a moment of serene stillness amidst nature's grandeur.

3. Cultural Significance: Mount Fuji is an iconic symbol of Japan, representing natural beauty and cultural heritage. Shotei's depiction emphasizes both the spiritual and aesthetic significance of this revered landmark.

Hiroaki Takahashi's work, including "Mount Fuji From Mizukubo", remains a profound testament to the beauty and intricacy of traditional Japanese woodblock printing, while also reflecting the innovations and influences of the shin-hanga movement.