We have three exquisite woodblock prints by Torii Kotondo in our no reserve auction on February 21st: “Make-up,” “Steam,” and “Snow.” These works exemplify Kotondo’s mastery in depicting feminine beauty, a hallmark of the Shin Hanga movement.
Lot 32 – Starting bid is $1500
Make-up (Kesho), 1929
In Make-up, Kotondo captures an intimate moment of a woman applying cosmetics. The composition focuses on the subject’s serene profile, highlighting her delicate features and the graceful curve of her neck. The subtle use of color and fine detailing reflect Kotondo’s dedication to portraying feminine beauty.
Lot 33 – Starting bid is $1500
Steam (Yuge), 1929
Steam portrays a woman enveloped in the gentle mist of a bathhouse. The soft rendering of steam creates a dreamy atmosphere, emphasizing the subject’s tranquility and introspection. Kotondo conveys both the warmth of the setting and the ephemeral nature of the moment.
Lot 34 – Starting bid is $1500
Snow (Yuki), 1929
In Snow, Kotondo presents a kneeling woman contemplating the falling snowflakes outside her room. The contrast between the cool tones of the snow and the warmth of her attire creates a striking visual harmony. The composition captures the serene beauty of winter, as well as the subject’s poised demeanor, encapsulating a fleeting yet timeless scene.
Torii Kotondo (1900–1976) was a prominent figure in the Shin Hanga movement, renowned for his bijin-ga – images of beautiful women. His works are celebrated for their refined aesthetics and technical excellence, reflecting a deep appreciation for traditional Japanese beauty and culture.
The catalog to our February 21st auction can be found here.