Kawase Hasui (1883-1957) Showa era (1926-1989), dated 1957 An oban tate-e print, titled along left lower margin Hiraizumi Konjikido (Hall of the Golden Hue, Hiraizumi) beneath a special seal Zeppitsu (final work) depicting a tranquil snow-blanketed scene showing a priest (perhaps Hasui himself) with his back to the viewer ascending the stone steps towards Konjikido, dated Showa sanjuninen saku (Work of Showa 32 [1957]), published by Watanabe Shozaburo, with a round Watanabe seal at bottom left corner; signed Hasui with artist's red seal Kawase. 39.1cm x 26.7cm (15 3/8in x 10½in). 注脚 This is Kawase Hasui's final work, often referred to as the artist's last poignant journey─visual and physical─bidding farewell to the world; the priest perhaps being a metaphor for Hasui himself ascending the steps to the holy realms of Buddhism, since the Konjikido was renowned for its funeral services. Hasui was already sick during the design of this print and did not live to see its publication. This print was part of the first edition published by Watanabe Shozaburo in 1957 in time for Hasui's widow to distribute them among the friends and close acquaintances who attended the hundred-day anniversary of her husband's death. It is not known how many were made at that time, however, it is likely the number would have been less than a hundred impressions; later editions have additional publisher's seals along the right margin.