Pine In Rain pairs a traditional Japanese symbol of endurance with Kasamatsu's signature atmospheric rain effects. Watanabe lifetime editions sell for $1,000-$2,500. The rain lines against dark pine boughs create a graphic contrast that appeals to collectors who appreciate the intersection of natural subjects and dramatic weather in shin-hanga printmaking.
Pine boughs receive a rainfall, the water beading and running on the stiff needles while the massive trunk stands unmoved by the weather passing through its branches. Kasamatsu depicts pine in rain with attention to how this tree's architecture responds to water: the needle clusters shed rain efficiently, the bark darkens with moisture, and the overall form of the pine — a symbol of endurance in Japanese visual culture — seems particularly appropriate to weather that would diminish a less resilient subject.
1962
Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
c. 1833-36
Woodblock print (nishiki-e); ink and color on paper
Ame no Omiya
1930
Color woodblock print; oban
Teradomari no yau
1921
Color woodblock print; oban
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Pine in Rain was created by Shiro Kasamatsu (笠松紫浪).
Pine in Rain uses Bokashi, Nishiki-e, and Moku-hanga, on woodblock print.
Pine in Rain was published by Watanabe Shozaburo.
Pine in Rain depicts rain.
