Masaaki Tanaka(田中正秋) "Shishimai" A.P. — Silkscreen The traditional Japanese performing art of the Shishimai is a guardian deity that wards off misfortune and brings good fortune. In this work, Masaaki Tanaka captures its mystical and dynamic presence with vibrant colors and an energy that is difficult to put into words. The deep, clear indigo blue evokes the night air, while the lion's fur, rendered in white lines, embodies its rippling spirit. The lion's blazing red mask symbolizes the vitality that rushes directly toward the viewer. Faced next to it is a dancer wearing a Tengu mask. The figures of those who stand on the boundary between gods and humans and preside over the celebrations beautifully coexist within the canvas. In Japan, we not only celebrate the New Year, but also welcome it with rituals that bring good fortune and ward off evil. The most beloved traditional performing art, the Shishimai(lion dance), is a symbol of this. Lions are considered sacred guardian creatures, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring health, prosperity, and good fortune. At New Year's, lion dancers take to the streets, gently biting people's heads to bestow wisdom and happiness for the coming year. This work captures the powerful vitality of the dynamic Shishimai, and expresses the Japanese cultural symbols of "rebirth," "protection," and "joy." This work is a rare A.P. (Artist's Proof) produced separately from the regular edition. It is a piece of special value for collectors. Masaaki Tanaka is an artist known for vividly capturing fleeting moments of folk culture and festivals. A representative theme of his work is the Shishimai. The bold flat composition, the skillful depiction of traditional costume patterns in detail, and the Japanese aesthetic that combines dynamism and tranquility are evident in this work. ◆About the Artist Masaaki Tanaka◆ Masaaki Tanaka grew up in postwar Kyoto and has consistently produced works that explore the profound spirituality of Japanese culture, particularly the boundary between gods and humans, through themes such as festivals, kagura, masks, and lion dances. His works are characterized by highly decorative, bold color compositions, sharp lines, and dramatic compositions that evoke feelings of prayer and movement. [Size] 50.7×39 cm [Condition] There are no noticeable scratches, but please note that this is an old piece and may have deteriorated over time. Please check the photos for details. Any taxes related to international shipping must be borne by the purchaser. Occasionally, customs or the delivery company in your country may contact you for customs clearance via phone or email. Kindly ensure you are available to respond. Failure to do so may result in the parcel being returned to me, incurring additional shipping fees for reshipment. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. I will pack the item securely, but there may be cases where the item is repackaged at customs or damaged upon arrival due to a mistake by the shipping company. If this happens, please contact me immediately. Please promptly send me a photo of the item when it arrives and a photo of the damage to the item. We will provide refunds depending on the situation.Masaaki Tanaka(田中正秋) "Shishimai" A.P. — Silkscreen The traditional Japanese performing art of the Shishimai is a guardian deity that wards off misfortune and brings good fortune. In this work, Masaaki Tanaka captures its mystical and dynamic presence with vibrant colors and an energy that is difficult to put into words. The deep, clear indigo blue evokes the night air, while the lion's fur, rendered in white lines, embodies its rippling spirit. The lion's blazing red mask symbolizes the vitality that rushes directly toward the viewer. Faced next to it is a dancer wearing a Tengu mask. The figures of those who stand on the boundary between gods and humans and preside over the celebrations beautifully coexist within the canvas. In Japan, we not only celebrate the New Year, but also welcome it with rituals that bring good fortune and ward off evil. The most beloved traditional performing art, the Shishimai(lion dance), is a symbol of this. Lions are considered sacred guardian creatures, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring health, prosperity, and good fortune. At New Year's, lion dancers take to the streets, gently biting people's heads to bestow wisdom and happiness for the coming year. This work captures the powerful vitality of the dynamic Shishimai, and expresses the Japanese cultural symbols of "rebirth," "protection," and "joy." This work is a rare A.P. (Artist's Proof) produced separately from the regular edition. It is a piece of special value for collectors. Masaaki Tanaka is an artist known for vividly capturing fleeting moments of folk culture and festivals. A representative theme of his work is the Shishimai. The bold flat composition, the skillful depiction of traditional costume patterns in detail, and the Japanese aesthetic that combines dynamism and tranquility are evident in this work. ◆About the Artist Masaaki Tanaka◆ Masaaki Tanaka grew up in postwar Kyoto and has consistently produced works that explore the profound spirituality of Japanese culture, particularly the boundary between gods and humans, through themes such as festivals, kagura, masks, and lion dances. His works are characterized by highly decorative, bold color compositions, sharp lines, and dramatic compositions that evoke feelings of prayer and movement. [Size] 50.7×39 cm [Condition] There are no noticeable scratches, but please note that this is an old piece and may have deteriorated over time. Please check the photos for details. Any taxes related to international shipping must be borne by the purchaser. Occasionally, customs or the delivery company in your country may contact you for customs clearance via phone or email. Kindly ensure you are available to respond. Failure to do so may result in the parcel being returned to me, incurring additional shipping fees for reshipment. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. I will pack the item securely, but there may be cases where the item is repackaged at customs or damaged upon arrival due to a mistake by the shipping company. If this happens, please contact me immediately. Please promptly send me a photo of the item when it arrives and a photo of the damage to the item. We will provide refunds depending on the situation.