Yoshitomo Nara (1959) - Time Goes On

Yoshitomo Nara – Time Goes On (2002–2004) – Hand-Signed Photogravure & Aquatint – Limited Edition 47/52

An original, hand-signed limited-edition print by internationally acclaimed Japanese contemporary artist Yoshitomo Nara (奈良美智), presented in excellent visual condition and accompanied by original Bunkamura Gallery auction provenance documentation dating from 2014.

Time Goes On features a distinctive monochrome composition depicting a playful dog, an apple-shaped clock and a whimsical octopus-like character. The artwork reflects Nara’s characteristic combination of childhood imagery, humour and surrealism.

Artwork Details

* Artist: Yoshitomo Nara (奈良美智)
* Nationality: Japanese
* Born: 1959 (living)
* Title: Time Goes On
* Creation date: 2002–2004
* Printing date: Not separately documented
* Technique: Single-colour intaglio print combining photogravure and aquatint
* Edition: 47/52, from an edition numbered to 52
* Signature: Hand-signed and dated in pencil in the lower right margin
* Numbering: Individually numbered 47/52 in pencil in the lower left margin
* Paper: Wove paper with deckled edges; specific paper manufacturer not documented
* Sheet dimensions: 48 × 38 cm (height × width)
* Printer/Publisher: KIDO Press, Inc., Tokyo
* Style: Japanese Contemporary Art
* Catalogue raisonné: YNF3960
* Literature reference: E-2004-006
* Presentation: Framed in a natural wooden frame with floating mount

Provenance and Documentation

The artwork is accompanied by original auction documentation issued by Bunkamura Gallery, Tokyo, dated 4 May 2014.

The documents identify the artwork as Lot 092, Time Goes On, by Yoshitomo Nara, and include the official successful-bid notification (落札決定通知書) and associated auction bidding paperwork.

Redacted copies of these documents are provided to protect the previous owner’s personal and financial information while preserving the relevant provenance details.

This documentation establishes a traceable auction history dating back to May 2014.

Catalogue Raisonné and Literature

The artwork is documented in:

* Yoshitomo Nara: The Complete Works, Volume 1, Bijutsu Shuppan-sha, 2011, reference E-2004-006.
* Yoshitomo Nara Online Catalogue Raisonné, reference YNF3960.

The edition was produced by KIDO Press, Inc., Tokyo, using photogravure and aquatint techniques.

International Auction History

Other impressions of Time Goes On have appeared at established international auction houses, including SBI Art Auction, Christie’s and Phillips.

Notable comparable sales include:

* SBI Art Auction, Japan (2021): An impression achieved ¥862,500.
* Phillips Hong Kong (3 June 2026): Impression 52/52 sold individually for HK$33,540 (approximately US$4,280).

These auction results demonstrate an established international secondary market for this limited edition. Prices relate to other impressions and are not guarantees of future value.

Auction references:

SBI Art Auction:
https://www.sbiartauction.co.jp/en/results/detail/96/61

Phillips Hong Kong:
https://www.phillips.com/detail/yoshitomo-nara/230635

Condition – Excellent

The artwork is presented in excellent overall visual condition, beautifully displayed in its natural wooden frame.

The monochrome composition remains clearly defined, with the handwritten signature, date and edition numbering visible along the lower margin.

The paper retains its characteristic deckled edges, attractively displayed within the floating mount.

No significant tears, creases, foxing, discolouration or other major defects are apparent in the supplied photographs.

The artwork has been assessed visually while framed and has not been removed for inspection of the reverse. Minor imperfections not visible through the frame cannot be excluded.

Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the condition description.

Included in the Sale

* Yoshitomo Nara, Time Goes On, hand-signed and numbered 47/52
* Natural wooden frame, as photographed
* Redacted copies of original Bunkamura Gallery auction documentation dated 4 May 2014

About the Artwork

Time Goes On is a distinctive example of Yoshitomo Nara’s early-2000s printmaking, combining his recognisable character-based imagery with traditional intaglio techniques.

Its limited edition, individual pencil signature, recognised catalogue references and documented Bunkamura Gallery provenance make it an appealing addition to a collection of Japanese contemporary art.