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.
Origin:
Japan
Creator:
Artist: Kiyoshi SaitÅ
Materials & Techniques:
Glass, Paint, Paper, Wood
International: No International Shipping for this auction.
Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.
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.
Origin:
Japan
Creator:
Artist: Kiyoshi SaitÅ
Materials & Techniques:
Glass, Paint, Paper, Wood
International: No International Shipping for this auction.
Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.
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%
Dimensions
15 x 21 x 1 in
Pair of Kiyoshi Saito Mid-Century Japanese Woodblock Prints - Plowing the Field & Pagoda, Framed
Estimate $810-$2,420
Starting Price
$550
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Objects & Interiors II
Aug 7, 2026, 7:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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