Shiro Takagi - Horses

Shiro Takagi (1934–1998)

Date: 1980's
Publisher: Watanabe
Size: 5 1/2" x 6 1/4"
Genre: Landscape, Shin-hanga
Medium: Woodblock Print

A herd of horses on a bright green hill. From a group of contemporary woodblocks published for annual calendars on high-quality washi paper. Subjects range from landscapes and city scenes to figures and abstract designs.

Shiro Takagi (1934–1998) was an important Japanese printmaker associated with the sōsaku hanga ("creative print") movement. His work combines traditional moku hanga woodblock techniques with a distinctly modern style, and is admired for its craftsmanship, subtle color palettes, and thoughtful landscapes.

Born in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, Takagi attended Musashino College of Fine Arts in Tokyo but left in 1958, believing its academic approach did not suit his artistic goals. Although he studied woodblock printing with Amano Kunihiro, he was largely self-taught and developed a highly individual style.

Takagi exhibited with the Nihon Hanga Kyōkai and Kokugakai artist societies, becoming a member of the Nihon Hanga Kyōkai in 1961. His work appeared in numerous international exhibitions, and he received awards from the Japan Print Association in 1960 and the São Paulo Biennale in 1967.

Collectors often divide Takagi's work into two periods. Before 1971, his prints feature abstracted landscapes in warm reds and ochres. After 1971, his style became more representational, with greens and cooler tones playing a larger role in his compositions.

Condition - Excellent overall with no issues to report.