Details

Kazuma Oda is one of the few artists who bridged two distinct artistic movements and mediums. Known as Japan's most celebrated 20th-century lithographer in the Sosaku Hanga tradition, Oda also produced stunning woodblock prints that have become icons of Shin Hanga. "Arifuku Spa in Iwami" is among these significant Shin Hanga designs. This composition is tight and offers an interesting vantage point, looking down the steep steps that lead into town. The snowfall, angled steps, and people walking to and from the town create a powerful counterbalance to the quiet and persistent glow of the light from the windows and lanterns.

Interestingly, Kawase Hasui also produced a print of the same subject with a similar composition (offered here). Unlike Hasui’s design, Oda chooses a winter setting with a strong snowfall. The active, almost frantic pace of the inhabitants echoes the aggressive snowfall in Oda’s design, serving as a strong counterpoint to Hasui’s work, which evokes the more traditional calm of a spa town.

Connoisseur's Note

This early impression is noteworthy for the woodgrain pattern found throughout the design, giving this snow scene a great atmospheric effect. Particularly compelling are the crosshatching embellishments in dark gray block, most evident on the rooftops of the houses. The beautifully printed yellows and pinks provide the print with a wonderful sense of warm light that is both calming and inviting.