Work Title: Sanjō-ji (三井寺) Artist: Munakata Shikō (棟方志功，1903 - 1975) Medium: Woodblock Print Artist's Seal on Plate: Present Sheet Size: 34 × 31 cm (13.4 × 12.2 in) Sheet Material: Washi (和紙) Publisher: Yaskawa Electric Mfg. Co., Ltd. (株式会社 安川電機製作所) This beautiful black-and-white woodblock print *Sanjō-ji* (三井寺) was created in the 1960s by renowned Japanese printmaker Munakata Shikō (棟方志功), and stands as a classic example of his signature *ban-ga* (板画) style. It was compiled and published in January 1989 by Yaskawa Electric Mfg. Co., Ltd. (Japan). The composition is defined by bold black carved blocks and negative space—with no gradient grays—delivering striking visual impact. Carved directly onto wood using tools like flat and round chisels, the lines exude power while preserving the raw texture of woodblock carving. **Sanjō-ji (三井寺), officially known as Chōtōzan Enjō-ji (長等山園城寺), is located in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. It is the head temple of the Tendai Jimon sect, situated near Lake Biwa, and has been a famous scenic spot since ancient times.** Rather than realistically rendering Sanjō-ji Temple, the work abstractly conveys the temple’s structure and atmosphere through geometric, symbolic lines: it carries the rhythm of Eastern architecture, while integrating the tension of Western Expressionism. Munakata’s *ban-ga* philosophy is "using the chisel as a brush, letting the work emerge naturally from the wood"—he carved directly onto the block without preliminary sketches, and *Sanjō-ji* embodies this "impromptu creation": beneath its abstract lines lie both the spiritual essence of Sanjō-ji Temple and his exploration of fusing traditional and modern art. An artist’s seal appears in the upper right corner of the artwork. On the reverse side, publication details are inscribed: "1989 年 棟方志功「夢応の鯉魚」板画冊 1 月 三井寺の冊 安川電機製作所". Affected by age, the sheet exhibits natural aging signs including oxidation-induced yellowing and creases. The work is in overall good condition. Note: Frame not included. Image shown for display purposes only. Shiko Munakata was originally named Kumao Munakata. He enrolled in the Western Painting Department of the Tokyo School of Fine Arts but later dropped out due to financial constraints. In 1927, he dedicated himself fully to printmaking. Influenced initially by traditional Japanese ukiyo-e (浮世絵) and Western Expressionism, he developed a distinctive style characterized by dramatic black-and-white contrasts and bold, concise lines, with subject matter encompassing folk tales and mythology. His career gained momentum in 1936 when his works were selected for the First Independent Art Association Exhibition. In 1955, he was designated a Living National Treasure by the Japanese government—a prestigious official title for bearers of Japan’s intangible cultural heritage. His artworks have been exhibited extensively both domestically and internationally, playing a pivotal role in introducing Japanese printmaking to the global stage. His artistic legacy continues to inspire countless printmakers to this day. - The picture is part of the description. The color of the item may be slightly different from the picture (due to camera and screen settings). - The successful bidder will be responsible for any customs duties and taxes (if applicable). - This item will be mailed by the postal service of Taiwan in the form of airmail with insurance attached.