Vintage Japanese Washi Chigiri-e ‘Fuji’, 1983

A refined Japanese paper artwork depicting hanging wisteria, built up with soft washi fibres and framed with a deep burgundy mount.

Dimensions: height 41 cm, width 38 cm, depth 2.5 cm.

This vintage Japanese work dates from Shōwa 58, corresponding to 1983. On the reverse, the Japanese inscription “御祝” can be read as “in celebration” or “as a congratulatory gift”, followed by April 1983. Below is a name, probably Hatanaka; a small signature is also visible on the front beside the date.

The composition shows a branch with gracefully hanging fuji blossoms, rendered in soft shades of purple, green and brown. The image is built up from fibrous Japanese paper, probably in a chigiri-e-like technique, where torn or layered washi paper creates a soft, almost watercolour-like texture. The light silvery speckles in the background enhance the subtle, poetic character of the work.

The artwork is framed in a warm wooden frame with a deep burgundy mount, beautifully bringing out the soft colours of the wisteria. A quiet and distinctly Japanese wall piece, ideal for a calm place in a contemporary interior.

The work is in beautiful vintage condition, with light traces consistent with age and use.