![Untitled [portrait of a boy] by Umetaro Azechi — Japanese Woodblock print, ink on paper, mid–20th century](https://1.api.artsmia.org/800/136025.jpg)
$500–$5,000. Common mountain prints: $500–$1,500. Key value factors: Azechi's cheerful mountain prints have consistent demand. Larger and more complex compositions are most valued.
"Untitled [portrait of a boy]" is a sosaku-hanga print by Umetaro Azechi, created during the Showa period. This abstract work reflects the artist's exploration of form, color, and texture through the woodblock medium.
Umetaro Azechi approaches abstraction through the unique constraints and possibilities of woodblock printing, where the grain of the wood, the pressure of the baren, and the interaction of pigment and paper all contribute to the final image. His bold, almost childlike style with vivid colors celebrates the joy of mountain life.
As a sosaku-hanga work — designed, carved, and printed entirely by the artist's own hand — this print embodies the creative philosophy that the printmaker's personal expression should permeate every stage of production, from concept to finished impression.
This print represents Umetaro Azechi's contribution to the sosaku-hanga tradition during the Showa period. As with all works by this artist, it reflects both individual artistic vision and the broader cultural moment in which it was created. For collectors and admirers of Japanese printmaking, it offers a window into the sophisticated aesthetic world that produced some of the most beloved images in art history.
1944 (printed c. 1950 from recut block?)
Color woodblock print; oban
1944 (printed c. 1950 from recut block?)
Color woodblock print; oban
1945
Color woodblock print
1961
Color woodblock print; edition 10/100
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Untitled [portrait of a boy] was created by Umetaro Azechi (畦地梅太郎) in mid–20th century.
Untitled [portrait of a boy] depicts children, daily life, and portraits.
Untitled [portrait of a boy] measures 25.1 × 17.3 cm.
