Matsumoto Castle in Shinshu province is one of Japan's original surviving castles, and Kasamatsu's portrayal emphasizes its striking black exterior reflected in the surrounding moat. Watanabe lifetime editions sell for $1,000-$2,500. Castle subjects carry broad appeal among collectors of both Japanese prints and Japanese historical architecture.
The black-walled Matsumoto Castle — its dramatic silhouette earned it the name "Crow Castle" — reflects in the moat as the Northern Alps rise snow-capped in the distance, dated 1934. This is one of Kasamatsu's finest castle prints, produced during his most active [shin-hanga](/glossary/shin-hanga) decade. The castle's distinctive profile — six floors of ascending rooflines and defensive stonework — against the mountain backdrop makes Matsumoto one of Japan's most compositionally compelling castle subjects, and Kasamatsu renders it with authoritative clarity.
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Matsumoto Castle, Shinshu (信州 松本城) was created by Shiro Kasamatsu (笠松紫浪) in 1934.
Matsumoto Castle, Shinshu uses Bokashi, Nishiki-e, and Moku-hanga, on color woodblock print.
Matsumoto Castle, Shinshu was published by Watanabe Shozaburo (1934).
Matsumoto Castle, Shinshu depicts castles.
