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Wada Sanzo (1883-1967) Japanese, Reproduction Woodblock Print "Komuso (Occupations of Showa Japan)"

Sold for $40 at Sarasota Estate Auction on Apr 19, 2026.

Wada Sanzo (1883-1967) Japanese, Reproduction Woodblock Print "Komuso (Occupations of Showa Japan)" auction lot image

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Lot description

Wada Sanzō (1883-1967) Japanese, Reproduction Woodblock Print "Komuso (Occupations of Showa Japan)". Traditional Japanese woodblock print depicting two Komuso monks wearing traditional straw baskets over their heads and playing bamboo flutes as a small dog watches them. Artist's seal on right. Framed. Overall Size: 11 1/2 x 14 1/2 in. Sight Size: 9 1/2 x 12 1/2 in. Wada Sanzō (1883–1967) was a Japanese painter, costume designer, and color theorist whose work bridged traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern design. Born in Hyōgo Prefecture, he studied Western-style painting (yōga) and became known for both fine art and applied design, including influential research on color harmony. Wada gained international recognition for his comprehensive color reference works, particularly A Dictionary of Color Combinations, which became an important resource for artists and designers. He was also closely associated with Japanese woodblock print publishing in the Shōwa period; his illustrated series Occupations of the Shōwa Era in Pictures depicted everyday Japanese trades and professions with careful attention to costume and social detail. Beyond printmaking, Wada worked extensively in theater and film costume design and contributed significantly to modern Japanese visual culture through his exploration of color, craft, and contemporary life.

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