Artist: Shiro Kasamatsu
Medium: Original Japanese Woodblock Print
Series Title: Snow
Edition: S. Watanabe Seal
Date: 1939
Publisher: S. Watanabe Color Print Co.
Reference No.: Grund: W-46; pg. 6
Size: 10 -1/2 x 15 -1/4 "
Condition: Very fine
Notes:
Signed: Shiro and stamped "Shi". Publisher: Watanabe Shōzaburō and cachet. Dated: Showa 14 (1939). One of the artists most popular scenes during his collaboration with the S. Watanabe Color Print Co.
The composition captures a dramatic spring moment at the Kanbayashi hot spring resort in Nagano (Shinshu). Heavy wind and rain create a dense, swirling blizzard of falling cherry blossom petals across a grove of dark, textured trees. In the background, a traditional hot spring inn glows with a warm, welcoming yellow light filtering through the windows, contrasting beautifully with the cool, misty purples, grays, and soft pinks of the storm.
Kanabayashi, is a hot spring district standing quietly at the foot of the Shiga Highlands deep in the heart of Joshin'etsu-kogen National Park. Since ancient times, this area has been frequented by writers and artists, including Natsume Soseki, Shiga Naoya, Saito Mokichi, and Inoue Yasushi. Situated just 1.6 kilometers from Jigokudani Monkey Park, this is one of the only places in the world where one can view wild monkeys bathing in hot springs.