
Description
A serene and sophisticated pair of original mid-century color woodblock prints by Kiyoshi SaitÅ (1907-1997), Japan's foremost modernist printmaker and a pivotal figure in the sosaku-hanga movement. These timeless works capture SaitÅ's masterful blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics with bold, minimalist abstraction"”rich textures, limited palettes, and an evocative sense of quiet contemplation.
The first print, "Plowing The Field," depicts a peaceful rural farming scene with a farmer and ox working the terraced fields. The composition features traditional farmhouses with tiled roofs set against rolling hills, rendered in beautiful shades of gray, brown, and white. The characteristic woodgrain texture and hand-carved quality are evident throughout, showcasing SaitÅ's distinctive technique.
The second print features a majestic three-tiered pagoda silhouetted against a stunning cobalt blue evening sky with white clouds. The dramatic black architecture with striped rooflines creates a striking contrast against the textured blue background, with additional buildings and a stone lantern completing the serene temple scene. The rich color and bold graphic composition exemplify the artist's modernist interpretation of traditional Japanese subjects.
Both prints bear SaitÅ's signature red seal and are beautifully framed under glass in complementary wood frames with professional matting. These works represent the artist's celebrated mid-century period when his international reputation was at its peak following his 1951 São Paulo Biennale prize.
Condition: Both prints are in excellent vintage condition with vibrant, unfaded colors. The frames show minor age-appropriate wear consistent with vintage pieces. No foxing, tears, or damage to the prints themselves.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Vintage framed print in good overall condition. Frame shows light wear consistent with age. Backing paper has minor age-related wear and repairs but remains structurally sound. Print colors remain strong with no obvious staining or foxing visible in the image area when inspected in frame. Not examined out of frame. Ready to hang.
Dimensions:
Height: 15 in.
Width: 21 in.
Depth: 1 in.
Category: Original Prints
Origin: Japan
Materials: Glass, Paint, Paper, Wood
Creator: Artist: Kiyoshi SaitÅ
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $55.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from Crownsville, MD
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
The first print, "Plowing The Field," depicts a peaceful rural farming scene with a farmer and ox working the terraced fields. The composition features traditional farmhouses with tiled roofs set against rolling hills, rendered in beautiful shades of gray, brown, and white. The characteristic woodgrain texture and hand-carved quality are evident throughout, showcasing SaitÅ's distinctive technique.
The second print features a majestic three-tiered pagoda silhouetted against a stunning cobalt blue evening sky with white clouds. The dramatic black architecture with striped rooflines creates a striking contrast against the textured blue background, with additional buildings and a stone lantern completing the serene temple scene. The rich color and bold graphic composition exemplify the artist's modernist interpretation of traditional Japanese subjects.
Both prints bear SaitÅ's signature red seal and are beautifully framed under glass in complementary wood frames with professional matting. These works represent the artist's celebrated mid-century period when his international reputation was at its peak following his 1951 São Paulo Biennale prize.
Condition: Both prints are in excellent vintage condition with vibrant, unfaded colors. The frames show minor age-appropriate wear consistent with vintage pieces. No foxing, tears, or damage to the prints themselves.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Vintage framed print in good overall condition. Frame shows light wear consistent with age. Backing paper has minor age-related wear and repairs but remains structurally sound. Print colors remain strong with no obvious staining or foxing visible in the image area when inspected in frame. Not examined out of frame. Ready to hang.
Dimensions:
Height: 15 in.
Width: 21 in.
Depth: 1 in.
Category: Original Prints
Origin: Japan
Materials: Glass, Paint, Paper, Wood
Creator: Artist: Kiyoshi SaitÅ
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Vintage framed print in good overall condition. Frame shows light wear consistent with age. Backing paper has minor age-related wear and repairs but remains structurally sound. Print colors remain strong with no obvious staining or foxing visible in the image area when inspected in frame. Not examined out of frame. Ready to hang.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Pair of Kiyoshi Saito Mid-Century Japanese Woodblock Prints - Plowing the Field & Pagoda, Framed
Estimate $810-$2,420
Starting Price
$420
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The May Edit: Vintage & Antique Finds Art II
May 04, 2026 7:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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