Konen: Great Buddha of Kamakura at Dusk (SOLD)

Artist:  Uehara Konen (1878-1940)
Title: Great Buddha of Kamakura at Dusk
Date: ca. 1920s-30s

The Great Buddha in Kamakura emanates peace and compassion as darkness descends. This incredible bronze statue of Amida Buddha was cast in 1252 and survived a 15th century tsunami that washed away its surrounding buildings. Placed before of the great statue, we see several stone lanterns lit, their yellow glow offering illumination.  Konen published most of his works with Kobayashi Bunshichi, whose shop was sadly destroyed in the 1923 earthquake. This is a prewar design that was most likely published by Watanabe Shôzaburô. Watanabe in his early days worked at Bunshichi as a clerk, so this is likely how he met Konen. There is little biographical information on Konen, but he studied painting with Kajita Hanko and Matsumoto Fûko (1840-1923).

Condition: Excellent impression, color and condition.
Dimensions: 39.5 x 17.8 cm
Publisher: Watanabe Shozaburo (?)
Signature:  Sealed Konen

SKU: KNN010