Shin Hanga Appraisal

Bell Tower in the Rain, Okayama by Kawase Hasui (Posthumous Heidi Edition)

This framed Japanese woodblock print, titled "Bell Tower in the Rain, Okayama," is by the renowned Shin-hanga artist Kawase Hasui (1883-1957). The print measures approximately 9x14 inches and is presented within a dark brown, possibly stained wood frame, encased under glass. A textured, teal-blue-green fabric mat surrounds the print, providing a complementary border. The artwork depicts a serene, atmospheric street scene in Okayama, Japan, dominated by a tall, multi-tiered bell tower on the left, rendered in dark greys and browns. Traditional Japanese buildings with dark tiled roofs and light-colored walls line a narrow, wet street, reflecting the subtle colors of the rainy sky. Faint brushstrokes or impressions suggest falling rain, and blurred figures with umbrellas are visible on the street, enhancing the sense of a quiet, inclement day. The sky is rendered in a soft, muted blue-green, characteristic of Hasui's ability to capture light and atmosphere. Visible on the left margin of the print are Japanese characters, likely the artist's signature, seals, and potentially publisher's marks. This particular print is identified as a posthumous edition, specifically the "Heidi" (likely Hotei) edition, meaning it was printed after Hasui's death using his original woodblocks. Shin-hanga prints are celebrated for their meticulous craftsmanship, rich color saturation, and intricate detail, which are evident in the precise lines and subtle color gradations of the composition. The overall condition appears excellent through the glass, with no discernible foxing, major creases, or tears on the print, and the frame showing minimal wear. The careful framing and matting suggest the print has been well-preserved.