Japan - tensho shubum

A magnificent, large-format woodblock print of the National Treasure "Koten On-i zu" (Longing for Distance Amidst Rivers and Sky), attributed to the legendary Muromachi master Tensho Shubun. This exquisite edition was produced mid-20th century by the prestigious Tanseisha (Kyoto). Now strictly out of print, it represents a rare opportunity to acquire a high-fidelity reconstruction of one of Japan’s most important cultural assets.

The Artist: Tensho Shubun (active 1414–1463)
Tensho Shubun was the preeminent painter-monk of Shokoku-ji Temple and a towering figure in the history of Japanese ink painting (Suibokuga). As the successor to Josetsu and the master of the great Sesshu, Shubun established the refined, atmospheric landscape style that defined the Muromachi period and influenced Japanese aesthetics for centuries.

Artistic Theme: The Zen Landscape
This work is a quintessential example of "Shiga-jiku" (poetry and painting scroll). It depicts a vast, misty landscape where the sky and water merge into an infinite horizon. The composition captures the Zen-inspired yearning for spiritual liberation, utilizing expansive "Ma" (empty space) to evoke a sense of profound depth and quiet contemplation beyond the mundane world.

Exquisite Kyoto Craftsmanship (Kogeiban)
To replicate the ethereal ink gradients of the original National Treasure, this print was executed using the sophisticated Kogeiban woodblock technique. It was brought to life by a legendary team of Kyoto artisans:

Carver: Sadao Uetani (植谷 貞雄)

Printer: Kurazo Yoneda (米田 蔵造)

Publisher: Tanseisha, Kyoto (京都 丹青社)

Documentation
Includes the original Washi paper commentary by Teruo Nakamura (former Chief Curator at the Tokyo National Museum). The text provides academic insight into Shubun’s mastery of "atmospheric perspective" and the spiritual significance of this masterpiece.

Condition & Details
Dimensions: Approx. 56 x 44 cm (Large Sheet Size).

Technique: Woodblock print on traditional Washi paper.

Condition: Good vintage condition. Preserved in its original portfolio folder. The presence of natural "foxing" (age spots) is consistent with its mid-20th-century origin, serving as a dignified antique patina that confirms its history and authenticity.

Artistic Significance
As original works by Tensho Shubun are almost exclusively held in national museums and temples, this high-quality, discontinued woodblock edition is the most prestigious way for a private collector to experience the genius of the Muromachi period. It is a cornerstone piece for any serious collection of Japanese art or Zen-related masterpieces.

Atention:
The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase.