With Authentication Sticker by Pariji MUNAKATA
Frame Size: H 55 cm × W 43.5 cm
This work was created against the backdrop of Shiko Munakata’s first trip to the United States in 1959.
Following his Grand Prix win at the Venice Biennale in 1956, Munakata accepted an invitation from the Rockefeller Foundation and the Japan Society.
In January 1959, he boarded the passenger-cargo ship Yamakimi Maru (Yamashita Steamship Co.) to fulfill his long-held dream of visiting America. Accompanied by his family on this nine-month journey, Munakata is believed to have composed the poem and created this woodblock print aboard the vessel during the Pacific crossing, reflecting on the safety of their voyage and thinking fondly of those back home.
At the top, a waka poem written in Munakata’s distinctively dynamic and expressive calligraphy is carved directly into the print: "How is the awakening on our ship? How is the awakening of those keeping home? Softly falls the rain..."
This poem gently captures the scene of the voyage—contrasting the morning aboard the ship with the morning of loved ones remaining in Japan—infused with warm affection sent across the sea.
In the center, three sacred deity figures are depicted with fluid, expressive lines, their hands folded in prayer. The composition seamlessly balances Munakata’s powerful black ink lines with a gentle, divine warmth.
The lower margin features the artist’s signature in pencil, and the back of the frame bears a seal of authenticity by Pariji Munakata, the artist's eldest son who oversaw the authentication and management of his father's estate.
Shiko MUNAKATA
1903-1975
One of the world's leading masters of 20th century art One of the most famous artists in the world. Japanese woodblock prints artist. Born in Aomori Prefecture. Sho Since 2005, he has called his prints "板画" (woodblock prints). and consistently works with the characteristics of woodblock prints. He has continued to create.
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