Iwata Sentaro (JAPAN, 1901-1974) ‘Hiru Sagari’ (lit. ‘Early Afternoon’, a beauty in Bunka, Bunsei era (1804-1830) Oban tata-e woodblock print From the series ‘Mohukan Bijin Meisaku Sen – Shiraume’ (lit. ‘Masterpieces of Beauties in Woodblock Print’) 42,5 x 30,5 cm Note: Iwata Sentaro was from the Asakusa district in Tokyo, although after his father's business failed he spent some time in Kyoto where he studied yuzen design and dyeing. He returned to Tokyo in 1919, and the following year began producing newspaper and magazine illustrations while studying with Ito Shinsui (1898-1972). By the 1930s Sentaro was well-established as an illustrator but he produced few woodblock print designs during this period (this design is one of only two published in Kindai Nihon hanga taikei). In 1950 he formed the Federation of Publishing Artists (Shuppan Bijutsuka Renmei). In 1976 he produced a limited edition set, Shirabai (White Plum), distributed by the Asahi Newspaper Company in collaboration with several publishers including Shinbi Shoin, Takamizawa, Adachi, Kato Junji and Watanabe Shozaburo NOTE: CONDITION REPORTS AND MEASUREMENTS It is up to the bidder to satisfy themselves prior to buying as to the condition of a lot. In relation to Condition Reports, whilst we make certain observations on the lot, which are intended to be as helpful as possible, references in the condition report to damage or restoration are for guidance. The absence of such a reference does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of any others. The condition report is an expression of opinion only and must not be treated as a statement of fact. Measurements and weight are approximate and the potential bidder may re-ask it to be checked when asking for a condition report.