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Matsushima Zaimoku Island 1933

Art Appreciation

A serene seascape unfolds in this woodblock print where a lone sailboat gently glides across calm waters, its crisp white sail catching the light. Dominating the scene is a rugged rock formation arching over the sea, its earthy reds and browns texturally detailed, creating a striking contrast against the tranquil blue sky and softly clouded horizon. The water below reflects the sky’s pastels and the silhouette of the boat, rippling with quiet movement. The composition balances natural solidity and fluidity—rock and water, stillness and motion—inviting the viewer to breathe in the peaceful coastal atmosphere.

The artist's masterful use of traditional ukiyo-e techniques is on full display: fine gradations in the sky and water create depth and mood, while precise line work defines the textured rock face and sailboat. The color palette is restrained yet rich: muted blues, soft creams, and gentle pinks evoke a delicate yet vibrant coastal morning or evening light. Emotionally, the piece evokes calmness and quiet contemplation, as one might feel sitting by the shore watching ships drift by. Rooted in early 20th-century Japan, this print captures the timeless harmony between nature and human presence, reflecting an appreciation for the natural world characteristic of the shin-hanga movement—a modern revival of ukiyo-e.

Matsushima Zaimoku Island 1933

Hasui Kawase

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Created:

1933

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Dimensions:

4431 × 6288 px

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