18th Century Antique Japanese Sakai Hoitsu “Iris” Woodblock Print

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Description

Antique Japanese “Iris” woodblock print signed Sakai Hoitsu.

Provanence: Cottone Auctions offered items from the David K. Anderson Grandchildren's Trust, … Read more Antique Japanese “Iris” woodblock print signed Sakai Hoitsu.

Provanence: Cottone Auctions offered items from the David K. Anderson Grandchildren's Trust, deaccessioned items from the Everson Museum of Syracuse, New York as well as items from the Strong Museum of Rochester, NY as well as items from various private institutions, estates and individuals.

About the Artist
Sakai Hōitsu (1761-1829) was a prominent Japanese painter and poet of the Edo period.
He is known for reviving the Rinpa school of art, a style originally founded by Hon'ami Kōetsu.
Rinpa art is characterized by decorative aesthetics, delicate coloring, and keen observation of the natural world, often using materials like gold and silver.
Hōitsu studied various artistic styles before specializing in the Rinpa school.
He became a Buddhist priest in 1797 and devoted his later life to studying and reproducing the work of Ogata Kōrin, a leading figure of the Rinpa school.

Fine art prints of his iris paintings are available online.
The iris (known as shōbu or kakitsubata in Japanese) holds rich symbolism in Japanese culture, representing hope, bravery, purity, and the warrior spirit. Its sword-like leaves are believed to ward off evil spirits. See less