Haku Maki - Poem 70-11 (Large)

Modern | Sōsaku Hanga Woodblock Print

Haku Maki’s 1970 embossed woodblock print Poem 70-11 (才葉) presents a dramatic tableau of seal-script characters pressed in crisp relief against a large & contrasting luminous yellow field. A single black seal form punctuates the composition. At this large scale, Maki’s mastery of crisply embossed forms and bold colour is on full display - a harmonious fusion of mid-century modern printmaking. 🟡✨

• Year & Edition: 1970 · Poem 70-11 (才葉) · Ed. 56/155.
• Medium: Embossed Woodblock.
• Dimensions: Paper H: 61.50 cm × W: 44.25 cm.
• Condition: Excellent for its size - vibrant yellow remains beautifully even, central embossing sharp; minimal age-related browning and slight creasing at margins, with one small foxing spot.
• Notes: A rare “Big Yellow” example in Maki’s poetic series, showcasing his finest embossed seal forms against a swathe of bold colour. The title kanji is unclear - likely 才葉.  👁️✨

About the Artist

Haku Maki (1924-2000) was an influential Japanese printmaker known for merging traditional kanji and ancient Chinese seal scripts with abstract, modern compositions. A self-taught artist and wartime survivor, Maki gained international acclaim through innovative cement-relief embossing techniques and vibrant colours. His distinctive works - including series like Poem, Persimmons, and Festive Wine - are celebrated globally, combining deep cultural resonance with contemporary abstract aesthetics. [ ← View All Works by Haku Maki]