Kumamoto Castle's distinctive black walls and curved stone fortifications provide a dramatic contrast to Tokuriki's typically soft palette. This Kyushu landmark suffered devastating earthquake damage in 2016, adding poignant historical value to earlier artistic depictions. Publisher editions bearing Unsodo or Uchida seals generally trade between $75-$250, with pre-earthquake prints carrying a subtle premium among historically minded collectors.
Kumamoto Castle — one of Japan's three great castles alongside Himeji and Matsumoto — rises on its stone ishigaki base in this woodblock print by Tomikichiro Tokuriki, its white plastered walls and distinctive curved "nanban" architecture making it immediately recognizable. Tokuriki's castle prints are characterized by his ability to capture the imposing scale and structural complexity of these fortified complexes while retaining the warmth and clarity that distinguish his best work. Kumamoto Castle, severely damaged in the 2016 earthquake and now undergoing restoration, has particular resonance as an image of monumental architecture in its intact splendor.
Woodblock print
20th century
Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
四月 (嵐山)
second half 20th century
Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
六月 (千家雨景)
second half 20th century
Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Kumamoto Castle was created by Tomikichiro Tokuriki (徳力富吉郎).
Kumamoto Castle uses Nishiki-e, Moku-hanga, and Kento, on woodblock print.
Kumamoto Castle was published by Unsodo.
Kumamoto Castle depicts castles.
