Lot #30: A Fine Pair of Mid-Century Japanese Calligraphy & Character Art Prints

A Fine Pair of Mid-Century Japanese Calligraphy & Character Art Prints These mid-century Japanese calligraphy and character art prints are a unique find, showcasing traditional artistic styles. Each print features delicate brushwork and vibrant colours, capturing scenes of Japanese life and culture. These pieces would make a lovely addition to any collection, bringing a touch of historical elegance to your space. Artist: Yoshihisa (吉久) Period: Shōwa era (ca. 1960s–1970s) Medium: Color lithographic prints on paper Dimensions: Each approx. 10.5" x 21.5" (Frame size) Form Factor: Vertical panoramic layout (inspired by traditional hashira-e / pillar prints) Markings: Signed in print; features individual publisher stamps and classic "TOSHIBA" corporate commission marks on lower margin. Overview An exceptional, beautifully preserved matching pair of mid-century Japanese decorative art prints by the illustrator Yoshihisa. Commissioned during the height of Japan’s postwar economic boom by the Toshiba corporation, these high-quality lithographs represent a peak era of corporate-sponsored cultural art production. The illustrations are rendered in the nostalgic Dōga style—a genre of Japanese folk art romanticizing rural childhood innocence. Characterized by charming, round-faced children in regional costume, the scenes brilliantly contrast classic Japanese natural elements: winter fire and spring water. Each piece is elegantly paired with historically significant Edo-period haiku poetry rendered in striking, fluid calligraphy. Translations & Poetic Analysis Print 1: The Bonfire (Winter / New Year Theme) Illustration: A young boy in a traditional quilted winter vest (chanko) lovingly tends to a vibrant, crackling outdoor bonfire amidst the brush. Calligraphy Transliteration: Matsubara ya / Yo ni homeraruru / Hi no hajime Signature: Chiyojo (千代女) English Translation:"Oh, the pine groves! Praised by the whole world on this, the first morning of the year." Context: A celebrated seasonal haiku focusing on the auspicious arrival of New Year's Day (Hi no hajime). The pine groves (matsu) symbolize longevity, endurance, and timeless winter beauty Print 2: The Boatman (Spring / Summer Theme) Illustration: A cheerful young boy wearing a woven straw sun hat (kasa) expertly navigates a wooden river boat using a push-pole against a lush green background. Calligraphy Transliteration: Wakaba fuku / Kaze sarasara to / Nari nagara Signature: Izen (惟然) English Translation:"The young green leaves rustle as the wind blows softly, murmuring along." Context: A brilliant sensory, auditory poem capturing the transition to warmer weather. The onomatopoeia "sarasara" evokes the exact rustling sound of a gentle breeze through fresh foliage Biographies of the Featured Poets Kaga no Chiyojo (1703–1775): Widely celebrated as one of the most prominent female haiku masters of the Edo period. Studying under disciples of Matsuo Bashō, her poetry is world-renowned for its deep empathy, sharp focus on the natural world, and effortless elegance. Hirose Izen (1646–1711): An influential Edo-period haiku poet and a direct, highly favored disciple of the legendary master Matsuo Bashō. Known for his playful yet profoundly spiritual verse, Izen's work captured everyday regional life with extraordinary musicality. Condition & Display Note Both pieces remain housed in their original mid-century slim, light-toned wooden frames. The mats and paper display minor, uniform toning consistent with age, lending a desirable vintage character to the pair. Excellent for tight spatial gaps, hallways, or flanking a prominent architectural feature. Pickup at Yonge Street and Steeles Avenue Dimensions: Each approx. 10.5" x 21.5" (Frame size) Pickup category timeslot {A}