Japanese Ukiyo E Woodblock Print Of A Couple Under An Umbrella In Snow Appraisal

Japanese Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print of a Couple Under an Umbrella in Snow

This item is a framed Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print depicting a couple, likely a man and a woman, under an umbrella in a snowy landscape. The print features two figures, one dressed in a dark garment with a head covering, possibly a man, and another in a lighter, mostly white garment, likely a woman, with flowing sleeves and a distinct obi (sash). They share a blue and light brown patterned umbrella, signifying a shared moment or journey. The background is sparse, indicating a snowy environment with snowflakes subtly suggested and snow accumulated on bare tree branches. The color palette is relatively muted, dominated by off-white/cream paper, black, pale coral/pink, and muted blues. The print is housed within a contemporary, highly reflective silver-colored metal frame, possibly chrome or polished aluminum, which might not be original to the artwork. The print itself appears to be mounted on a cream-colored mat board, showing some signs of age such as slight discoloration around the edges and possible foxing or minor staining, particularly noticeable in the upper left corner of the mat. A faint circular watermark or impression is visible on the lower left of the mat. Japanese characters, likely a signature or title, are present in a vertical column on the right side of the print. The style is characteristic of ukiyo-e, known for its distinct lines, flat planes of color, and depiction of everyday life or theatrical scenes. Given the style and visible characters, it likely dates from the Edo or Meiji period, potentially a reproduction of aSuzuki Harunobu print based on the visible signature like characters. The craftsmanship, though viewed through glass, appears to be of good quality, typical of traditional Japanese woodblock printing techniques. The frame shows some minor wear or scuffs consistent with handling.