Title: Shibaraku (暫 / A Moment) Technique: Stencil Print (Kappa-ban 合羽版，Sōsaku-hanga) Artist: Yoshitoshi Mori (森義利，1898–1992) Signed in pencil by the artist, with red seal H.C. (Hors de Commerce, trial proof) Image size: 20.5 × 29 cm (8.1 × 11.4 in) Frame outer size: 30.5 × 39.8 × 2 cm (12.0 × 15.7 × 0.8 in) Material: Handmade Washi (和紙) Dated: 1975, Showa period This is an H.C. (Hors de Commerce) trial proof original stencil print *Shibaraku (暫 / A Moment)* by the renowned Japanese master Yoshitoshi Mori, a pioneer of postwar Japanese Sōsaku-hanga creative prints. Yoshitoshi Mori is the originator of the Kappa-ban stencil print technique. In his early years, he studied textile dyeing and folk art under Yanagi Soetsu and Serizawa Keisuke. He began focusing on printmaking in his fifties and created his exclusive Kappa-ban stencil method. His art primarily features Kabuki actors, Edo street scenery, traditional festivals and classical figures, characterised by bold, powerful modelling and a highly distinctive personal style. As a core figure of Japan’s postwar creative print movement, Mori enjoys an excellent reputation among European and American collectors. The Honolulu Museum of Art held a special retrospective for him in 1979, when he was still alive. He was the first living Japanese print artist to receive this honour at that time. He passed away in 1992. His works are permanently collected by numerous international museums. This piece is based on the classic Kabuki theatre play *Shibaraku*. It depicts a majestic warrior with sharp angular lines, presenting intense theatrical power and visual impact. Executed in Mori’s iconic Kappa-ban stencil technique. Strong black outlines divide solid colour fields, paired with earthy reddish-brown and beige tones, a typical feature of his mature period style. Marked “H.C.” at the lower-left margin. Pencil-signed “Y. mori” and dated ’75 at the lower-right, accompanied by the artist’s red seal on the right side of the composition. The frame is fully sealed; therefore the reverse side of the print cannot be photographed. Housed in the original wooden frame with acrylic panel. Minor scratches are visible on the acrylic surface. The print is crafted on handmade washi. The paper shows natural age-related foxing. No tears, no repairs. Overall condition good. Shipping Notice Due to postal service adjustments, Taiwan Post EMS will suspend parcel deliveries to the below regions effective March 10, 2026: United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Israel, Pakistan, Maldives, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Greece, Egypt, Morocco. Bidders based in the listed areas are kindly asked not to place bids. Additional note: Delivery to Italy takes roughly 6–7 days. Customs or courier staff may contact you to complete clearance procedures. Please reply promptly, as delayed responses may lead to the package being returned to sender. You may speed up the clearance process by contacting the customs office directly via: dogane.malpensa.urp@agenziadogane.it Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. - The photographs form part of the item description. The actual colour of the artwork may differ slightly from the photos due to camera hardware and screen display 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.