Masao Ido — “Green Shade” (緑蔭), 1991 Artist’s Proof traditional Japanese woodblock print
Masao Ido
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Masao Ido — “Green Shade” (緑蔭), 1991 Artist’s Proof traditional Japanese woodblock print
Masao Ido (1945–2016) — “Green Shade” (緑蔭), 1991
Artist’s Proof (A.P.) Traditional Japanese Woodblock Print
A serene and highly collectible Japanese woodblock print by celebrated Kyoto artist Masao Ido, titled “Green Shade” (Ryokuin / 緑蔭) and created in 1991. This atmospheric composition captures the quiet elegance of a traditional Japanese garden viewed through layers of lush green foliage, a subject for which Ido became internationally renowned.
Executed using the centuries-old Japanese woodblock printing technique (mokuhanga), the work demonstrates Ido’s mastery of color layering, depth, and light. The rich tonal variations of green create a tranquil scene that evokes the refined beauty of Kyoto’s temple gardens.
This example is an Artist’s Proof (A.P.), a particularly desirable edition outside the standard numbered print run. The print is titled, signed, and dated in pencil by the artist, and bears Masao Ido’s red seal (hanko) in the lower right corner.
Presented in its original Japanese frame.
What Does A.P. Mean?
A.P. stands for Artist’s Proof (Épreuve d’Artiste).
Traditionally, artist’s proofs were reserved for the artist’s personal collection and used to evaluate color, registration, and overall quality during the printing process. These impressions are produced alongside the numbered edition but are not part of the regular edition size.
Collectors often prize Artist’s Proofs because:
- They are usually produced in smaller numbers.
- They were retained by the artist.
- They often exhibit exceptional print quality.
- They are generally considered more desirable than standard edition impressions.
Measurements
Including original Japanese frame
- Height: 45 cm (17.72 in.)
- Width: 57 cm (22.44 in.)
- Depth: 3 cm (1.18 in.)
About the Artist
Masao Ido was one of the most respected contemporary practitioners of traditional Japanese woodblock printing. Born in China in 1945 and raised in Morioka, Japan, he studied dyeing techniques before dedicating himself to woodblock printmaking.
Working primarily from Kyoto, Ido became renowned for his evocative depictions of:
- Kyoto temples and gardens
- Historic Japanese architecture
- Seasonal landscapes
- Cherry blossoms and autumn foliage
- Quiet scenes imbued with traditional Japanese aesthetics
His works were exhibited throughout Japan, North America, Europe, and Australia, and are held in numerous public and private collections. Today, his prints are sought after by collectors of both traditional and contemporary Japanese art.
Traditional Japanese Woodblock Printing (Mokuhanga)
The creation of a traditional Japanese woodblock print is an exceptionally labor-intensive process involving several specialized stages:
- Design Drawing – The artist creates the original composition.
- Block Carving – Separate cherry-wood blocks are hand-carved for each color.
- Pigment Preparation – Water-based pigments are mixed to achieve subtle tonal variations.
- Printing – Each color is applied individually by hand using a bamboo baren.
- Registration – Precise alignment ensures perfect color placement throughout the image.
A single print may require numerous carved blocks and dozens of printing impressions. The technique allows for remarkable depth, luminosity, and color gradation unattainable through mechanical printing methods.
Condition
Very good vintage condition. Presented in its original Japanese frame. Minor age-related wear consistent with age and use.
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 265, is case included.
Wear consistent with age and use.
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