Tomisaburō Hasegawa / Mutei, Shā Nai Nā, Japanese Woodblock Print, 1980s

Original Japanese woodblock print by Tomisaburō Hasegawa, also known by his artist name Mutei. The work is signed in pencil “T. Hasegawa” at the lower right and features Japanese artist seals.

Dating: late 20th century, probably circa 1980s–1990s.

Frame dimensions: height 44.5 cm, width 37 cm, depth 2.5 cm.
Visible size within the passe-partout: approx. 28.5 cm x 24 cm.

The composition shows a powerful black figure set against a soft green-blue background, combined with expressive Japanese calligraphy. The text can be freely translated as “it cannot be helped” or “there is nothing to be done”, a typical Japanese expression that gives the work a philosophical, almost meditative atmosphere.

The figure is built up from strong black areas and sharp reserved lines, giving the work a direct and highly graphic presence.

Tomisaburō Hasegawa was born in 1910 and died in 2004. He was a Japanese print artist best known for his woodblock prints. His work is closely connected to the Japanese mingei tradition and shows a clear affinity with the powerful visual language of Shikō Munakata.

A Japanese artist information sheet is included with the work. It mentions the name Mutei Hasegawa Tomisaburō, his address in Kurayoshi, Tottori, as well as memberships, exhibitions, awards and publications. This document adds valuable context to the origin and background of the piece.

The technique is an original woodblock print on Japanese paper, with visible ink structure and colour fields. This is not a regular reproduction print, but an authentic graphic work on paper.

The work is framed behind glass with a wide grey passe-partout. It is in beautiful vintage condition, with normal age-related traces, light discolouration and small spots to the paper and passe-partout, consistent with age and material.

A strong and atmospheric Japanese wall object, combining woodblock printing, calligraphy and philosophical simplicity.