[Untitled set of 36 woodblocks]

US$4,060.00

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[Untitled set of 36 woodblocks]

Kawakami, Sumio [illustrated by].

[Japan, 1950-1980s?].

A set of 36 carved woodblocks used in the printing of two books illustrated by the sōsaku-hanga artist Kawakami Sumio (1895–1972). Twenty-two of the blocks, including four containing text only, appear to have been used for Isoho no Tatoebanashi, one of several distinct books and print series on Aesop's Fables produced by Kawakami. The group appears to comprise the blocks for the work's illustrations and text, although the block used for the book-envelope is absent. Isoho no Tatoebanashi was originally published in a limited edition of 40 copies in 1940, and the same blocks were subsequently used for the 1980 reprint issued by Gallery Gohachi. The remaining thirteen blocks were used for Gaitō Jinbutsu Zue, either for the 1972 Gohachi edition, the 1984 Gohachi edition, or both. A note accompanying the blocks indicates that they were used for the 1972 edition, published in a limited edition of 150 copies, and records Kawakami's statement that he selected the subjects from sketches he had made some 35–36 years earlier. The block used for the title page is absent, but the group appears to contain the other blocks used for the book's illustrations and text. The thirty-sixth block, consisting of a series of small circles evidently printed in light blue, has not been identified with either work. It is unclear whether any or all of the blocks were carved by Kawakami himself. An unusually substantial surviving group of printing blocks associated with Kawakami.

One collection of 36 woodblocks, each carved on one side. Occasional chips and minor cracks. Stains from pigments. Title of illustration handwritten on verso of each block. Each block wrapped in original protective washi sheet. Most blocks measure 17.5 x 10 cm.

[Untitled set of 36 woodblocks]
Price: $4,060.00 (USD)