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About the Artist
Kawase Hasui was a central figure in the Shin-hanga movement, which revitalized Japanese woodblock printing in the early twentieth century by merging traditional techniques with modern sensibilities. Collaborating closely with master carvers and printers, Hasui produced evocative landscapes inspired by his travels across Japan, capturing the spirit of place and the subtle poetry of everyday life.
His works, admired both in Japan and internationally, often depict tranquil moments and ordinary settings transformed by light, weather, and season. For those interested in Japanese Shin-hanga art prints, discover more in our Kawase Hasui collection and explore additional masters in famous artists.
The Artwork
Morning in Beppu, created in 1937, reflects Hasui’s fascination with the port town of Beppu on Kyushu, renowned for its hot springs and maritime culture. This print was part of a series that introduced viewers to diverse Japanese locales, offering a window into regional life during the interwar period. Through such works, Hasui provided a sense of armchair travel, allowing people to experience distant places and moments of calm within their own homes.
In an era of rapid modernization, these serene scenes resonated with a longing for tradition and the quiet rhythms of daily existence. The print’s depiction of a harbor awakening at dawn embodies the gentle transition from night to day, inviting contemplation and a connection to the landscape. For those drawn to maritime themes, see our sea and ocean art.
Style & Characteristics
This woodblock print is distinguished by its bold, simplified silhouettes of boats and waterfront buildings set against a softly glowing morning sky. The composition features deep blues and inky blacks, contrasted with a warm yellow light that suggests the first rays of sunrise. Reflections ripple gently across the water, creating a sense of movement and tranquility.
Hasui’s mastery of atmospheric effects is evident in the subtle gradations and misty haze that envelop the scene, lending it a meditative, unhurried mood. The careful balance of color and form exemplifies the Shin-hanga style, making this a quintessential example of Japanese landscape art. For more serene blue-toned works, explore our blue artworks.
In Interior Design
Morning in Beppu complements interiors that favor calm and structure, such as Japandi, minimalist, or modern coastal spaces. Its measured geometry and tranquil subject make it ideal for living rooms, hallways, or home offices where a sense of focus and serenity is desired.
Pairing the print with natural wood, matte black accents, and off-white walls can enhance its contrasts, while touches of ochre in textiles echo the sunrise glow. A simple natural or slim black frame keeps the presentation refined; see options in our frames collection. This piece enriches a thoughtful gallery wall of landscape prints with its quiet elegance.