Spring

Spring is a woodblock print addressing the first of Japan's four sharply defined seasons. Maeda Toshiro likely renders spring through its characteristic visual markers: cherry blossoms, fresh green growth, softened light, or figures in lighter clothing. The woodblock medium builds the season's palette through layered impressions, the pale pinks and greens of early spring requiring delicate ink mixtures and careful pressure to avoid overwhelming the paper. Spring in Japan is not a single event but a progression from plum blossom in February through cherry blossom in April, and the print captures some moment along that unfolding sequence.