Autumn Larch (Karamatsu)
Original Print, Woodblock Print (Mokuhanga) on Washi paper • Attributed to Joichi Hoshi (1913-1979) or a contemporary follower such as Hideo Hagiwara or similar Shin-hanga/Sosaku-hanga lineage artists
Style & Movement
Sosaku-hanga (Creative Print) movement with Modernist/Minimalist influences
Medium & Technique
Color woodblock print employing multiple carved blocks with bokashi (gradation) and karazuri (embossing) techniques on handmade paper
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, circa 1970-1990
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 25" x 12" (image), Vertical O-tanzaku or narrow landscape format
Subject Description
A vertical composition depicting a dense line of larch trees in vibrant autumnal red hues. The composition is split by a sharp vertical divide into a light grey/silver left plane and a dark charcoal right plane, creating a strong graphic contrast and a sense of forest depth.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible mat burn and minor foxing on the mounting board, but image colors remain saturated.
Estimated Market Value
USD $800 - $2,500 (depending on definitive artist confirmation and signature presence)
Auction Estimate
USD $600 - $1,500
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a specialist gallery or Japanese print dealer; contains a red 'hanko' (artist seal) in the lower left characteristic of 20th-century Japanese printmakers.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the post-war Japanese print movement's shift toward abstraction and nature-based lyricism. It bridges traditional woodblock crafts with modern Western compositional minimalism.
Notable Features
Features a distinct red artist seal in the lower left corner. The utilize of metallic-pigment-style grey backgrounds is a hallmark of high-quality mid-century Japanese woodblock production.
Condition Issues
Visible browning/acidic matting stains at the edges of the aperture. Potential light fading on the grey background and minor surface dust under the glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Acid-free re-matting and framing using UV-protective museum glass. Ensure humidity control to prevent further foxing or paper warping.