Hasui, Kawase (1883 – 1957), “Tsuta Spa, Mutsu (Pre-Earthquake)”

Notes: One of the best extant examples, of a rare pre-quake Hasui design. Removed from the original S. Watanabe folder; never framed or displayed. From Hasui's personal journal notes: "Tsuta spa is situated in a secluded area deep in the mountains, far from any village. It has only one inn. I felt an unbearable loneliness in this solitary house during a gentle evening shower, so I went out. As I was thinking, 'Tomorrow, I will travel about four ri [16 km] to Towada, I wonder if any rain will stop', I looked over my shoulder towards the inn. I saw the faint lights of the dark and isolated building, which was backed by a group of cedars, their forms blurred by the rain. " Hotei Vol. 1; pg. 53