Clifton Karhu - Hakata Bay

Clifton Karhu (1927–2007)
Hakata Bay
Colour woodblock print
Signed in pencil, dated (19)65 and numbered 22/50
Dimensions: Hashira format (73 x 13 cm) (Visible area: 72.5 x 13.5 cm, Mat dimensions: 81 x 21 cm)
Condition: Slight colour loss, slightly browned. The sheet is unframed and firmly adhered between the mat and backing board.

Clifton Karhu was one of the most successful Western woodblock print artists of the post-war period, living and working in Japan. Despite early artistic talent and interest, the American of Finnish descent joined the military and was stationed in Kyushu from 1946–1948, during which time he came to know and love Japan. In 1952, he returned to Japan, first working as a missionary, and later beginning his career as a successful print artist. His works are characterised by his unmistakable graphic style with bold lines and striking colours, capturing the beauty and aesthetic of everyday landscapes.