Before the Mirror
鏡の前
by Ito Shinsui
- Date:
- 1916
- Medium:
- Color woodblock print
- Publisher:
- Watanabe Shozaburo
Typical Price
A woman studying her reflection is a quintessential Shinsui subject, rendered with extraordinary psychological depth. Early first editions with the 6mm Watanabe seal can reach $8,000-$20,000, making this one of his most valuable designs. Later recuts still command $3,000-$7,000, reflecting the enduring demand for this iconic composition.
Description
A young woman gazes at her reflection while adjusting her hair ornaments. This landmark print, Shinsui''s first woodblock design and one of the founding works of the shin-hanga movement, established the template for modern bijin-ga with its combination of naturalistic depiction and traditional elegance. The print''s immediate success at age eighteen launched Shinsui''s legendary career.
