Kamisaka Sekka was an important artistic figure in early 20th-century Japan. Born in Kyoto to a samurai family, his artistic talents were recognized early.
This print, part of a three-volume woodblock-printed album set, showcases Sekka’s mastery of graphic design. Originally issued as individual prints to subscribers, the series was later reissued in bound form—as seen here—for a broader audience. Each print presents a vignette drawn from nature or classical Japanese literature. Many of these subjects trace their origins back to the 10th and 11th centuries and have been reinterpreted by generations of artists. Sekka’s selections remain closely aligned with the traditions of the Rinpa school from the 16th and 17th centuries, whose influence is evident throughout his work.
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