$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.
Whispering, edition 1 of 70—the very first impression from the block, before any wear had softened the cut edges—shows two figures in close, quiet communication, their faces near each other in the confidential gesture of shared secret or intimate disclosure. In the mountain context, whispering might occur between climbers pausing on a difficult route, or between village folk sharing news in a community where sound carries. Azechi's bold style reduced the intimate exchange to the nearness of two simplified forms, relationship expressed through proximity rather than expression.
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.
Whispering was created by Umetaro Azechi (畦地梅太郎) in 1958.
Whispering depicts figures, daily life, and mountains.
