Work Title: Oranda-zaka no Sakaki (おらんだ坂の柵) Artist: Munakata Shikō (棟方志功，1903-1975) Technique: Woodblock Print Signature & Seal: Artist’s signature and seal on the print Paper Size: 39 × 29.5 cm (15.35 × 11.61 in) Frame Size: 56.8 × 51 × 3 cm (22.36 × 20.08 × 1.18 in) Paper Material: Washi (和紙) This exquisite woodblock print was created in 1971 by Munakata Shikō (棟方志功), one of Japan’s most renowned printmakers, and produced and published by Asahi Shimbun (朝日新聞社). This exquisite woodblock print was created in 1971 by Shiko Munakata, one of Japan’s most renowned printmakers, and published by Asahi Shimbun. The composition features large-scale canna leaves ("キャナ", the term for canna in the Okinawan dialect) as the background, paired with linear depictions of tropical vegetation, vividly capturing the natural landscape of Okinawa. The lively and distinct figures of local women and children, dressed in bright traditional costumes and holding umbrellas, offer an intimate glimpse into the daily life of the region. With its bold and vibrant color palette, the work reflects Munakata’s keen observation of regional folk customs and exudes a rich sense of vitality. It stands as a distinguished late-career masterpiece that masterfully integrates local cultural elements. The artist’s signature, inscription, and seal are located in the lower-left corner of the print. Printed on the verso of the paper is the colophon: 1971 西海道棟方版画 おらんだ坂の柵 (1971 Saikaido Munakata Print Oranda-zaka no Sakaki) The print is accompanied by a wooden frame with a glass panel. The frame bears signs of wear such as dents and scuffs from use over time. Owing to the passage of time, the washi paper shows oxidation-induced yellowing and creasing. Overall, the work is in good condition. 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.