Masao Ido, ‘Gokashō,’ Limited Edition Japanese Woodblock Print No. 94/150, Signed and Sealed, 1987

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Masao Ido (1945–2016) – "Gokashō" - 1987

Limited Edition Japanese Woodblock Print No. 94/150 with Artist’s Seal and Original Japanese Frame

A rare and highly decorative original Japanese woodblock print by renowned Kyoto artist Masao Ido, titled Gokashō (五個荘), depicting the quiet beauty of one of Japan’s most historic merchant villages. Created in 1987, this impression is from a limited edition of only 150 prints, numbered 94/150, hand-signed in pencil by the artist and bearing his distinctive red artist’s seal (hanko) in the lower right corner.

The composition captures a peaceful traditional street lined with wooden townhouses and earthen walls, rendered in Ido’s characteristic style that combines the refined craftsmanship of Japanese woodblock printing with a modern sense of atmosphere and light. The subtle interplay of sunlight and shadow creates remarkable depth and serenity, qualities for which the artist became internationally celebrated.

The print is presented in its original Japanese frame, enhancing both its authenticity and its appeal to collectors of Japanese art and design.

Details

• Artist: Masao Ido (1945–2016)
• Title: Gokashō (五個荘)
• Date: 1987
• Medium: Traditional Japanese multicolour woodblock print (mokuhanga)
• Edition: 94/150
• Hand-signed in pencil
• Artist’s red seal (hanko) lower right
• Original Japanese frame
• Frame dimensions:
• Height: 44.5 cm (17.52 in.)
• Width: 56.5 cm (22.24 in.)
• Depth: 3 cm (1.18 in.)

About the Artist

Masao Ido is regarded as one of the most important Japanese woodblock artists of the late twentieth century. Working from Kyoto, he dedicated his career to preserving the centuries-old tradition of mokuhanga while creating works that feel distinctly contemporary. His prints, celebrated for their luminous colour, architectural precision and tranquil atmosphere, are held in private and institutional collections throughout Japan, Europe and the United States.

Traditional Japanese Woodblock Printing

Japanese woodblock printing, known as mokuhanga, is a labour-intensive process involving separate carved woodblocks for each colour. Skilled printers apply pigments by hand and print each layer individually onto handmade washi paper. The result is a richness of colour and texture that cannot be replicated by modern mechanical printing methods.

With its desirable limited edition, hand signature, authentic artist’s seal, original Japanese framing and timeless depiction of traditional Japan, Gokashō represents an excellent opportunity to acquire a museum-quality work by one of Japan’s most respected modern printmakers.

Colors may slightly vary due to photographic lighting sources or your monitor settings.

The print will be shipped insured overseas in a custom made wooden case. 
Cost of transport to the US, Euro 225, is case included.

Wear consistent with age and use.

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