Masao Ido - かわら土べい (Kawara-Tiled Wall)

A fabulous print by Masao Ido: かわら土べい (Kawara-Tiled Wall). A striking view of kawara tiles and an old earthen wall (土塀 dobei) - enduring features of traditional Japanese temple and townhouse architecture. The fired clay tiles are decorated with floral and tomoe motifs, capturing centuries of craft tradition. Cast in shade, a scattering of green maple leaves offers a seasonal contrast, echoing the transience of early autumn 🍁. A beautifully textured composition where natural rhythm and built heritage gently meet.

• Year & Edition: 1991 · Ed. 80/180 (signed, titled & editioned in pencil).
  
• Medium: Woodblock.
  
• Dimensions: Sheet H: 50.00 cm × W: 39.00 cm · Image H: 44.00 cm × W: 32.00 cm.
  
• Condition: Beautiful condition. Clean, unmarked image. Crisp paper and rich colour.
  
• Notes: The carved patterns seen in the kawara roof tiles date back centuries, often used on temples and kura storehouses. A refined detail from Ido’s architectural studies.

About the Artist

Masao Ido (1945-2016) was a printmaker known for his Kyoto scenes, brimming with rich greenery, seasonal shades of signature “Ido Green”, and refined goma-zuri textures. Trained in traditional textile dyeing, he turned to woodblock printmaking in the early 1970s, capturing historic townscapes and seasonal views - from Kyoto to Shirakawa-go and the Nakasendō way. Printed with up to 23 colour blocks on handmade Echizen washi, his works are held in major collections including the MFA Boston, U.S. Library of Congress, and the Tokyo & Kyoto National Museums. [ ← View All Works by Masao Ido]