Bidspirit auction | Ito Shinsui (1898-1972) 'Early Spring

Ito Shinsui (1898-1972) 'Early Spring (Haru Asai)' 1931, Shin-Hanga Beauty - Ito Shinsui (1898-1972) Early Spring (Haru Asai) Woodblock print, 1931 (Showa 6) From the series New Women’s Customs (Shin Fujin Fuzoku) Published by Watanabe Shozaburo Oban tate-e (approx. 37 × 26 cm) A refined Shin-Hanga portrait of a modern Japanese woman in winter attire, her cloche hat and fur collar reflecting the Western-influenced fashions of early Showa-era Tokyo. Shinsui’s delicate facial modeling and richly layered color exemplify the sophistication of Watanabe-published bijin-ga. Condition Report Foxing throughout; central fold crease; marginal toning and small edge tears; overall fair condition. Provenance Private collection, Japan. Catalogue Note Ito Shinsui, one of the foremost artists of the Shin-Hanga movement, was celebrated for his portrayals of “modern beauties.” Early Spring is among his most iconic early 1930s designs, blending traditional woodblock technique with contemporary fashion influence.