Rain at Yomeimon Gate, Nikko
Japanese woodblock print on paper • Tsuchiya Koitsu
Style & Movement
Shin-Hanga (New Print Movement)
Medium & Technique
Traditional multi-block color woodcut (nishiki-e) featuring intense bokashi (gradation) printing techniques
Creation Period
Showa period, circa 1930s to 1950s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15 x 20 inches, horizontal landscape format
Subject Description
A classic Japanese landscape depicting a temple or shrine precinct, specifically incorporating a monumental stone lantern in the foreground and vertical striations representing heavy falling rain over traditional architecture and dark, atmospheric pine trees.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The colors appear strong with minimal fading, though there are signs of age toning on the surrounding matting and possible minor toning on the sheet margins.
Estimated Market Value
USD 1,500 - USD 3,000
Auction Estimate
USD 1,000 - USD 2,000
Provenance History
Acquired through standard art market channels; typical of mid-20th-century export prints brought back by foreign travelers or collected by enthusiast circles.
Art Historical Significance
Tsuchiya Koitsu was a prominent pupil of Kiyoshiro Kobayashi and later associated with master publisher Watanabe Shozaburo, making significant contributions to the Shin-Hanga movement by specializing in atmospheric landscapes featuring rain, snow, and moonlight.
Notable Features
Distinctive use of overlapping vertical lines to dramatically render heavy driving rain, combined with a muted nocturnal or overcast palette characteristic of Koitsu's weather-focused prints.
Condition Issues
Light environmental toning on paper margins, potential acid transfer from historic backing materials or acidic matting.
Conservation Recommendations
Re-matting with acid-free, museum-grade rag board, maintaining low-lux UV-filtered lighting conditions, and keeping relative humidity stable between 45-50%.