About the Artist
Goyō Hashiguchi was a prominent figure in early 20th-century Japanese printmaking, renowned for his sensitive portrayals of women known as bijin-ga. Working during the Shin hanga movement, he revitalized traditional woodblock techniques by blending classical Japanese aesthetics with subtle modern influences, creating works that feel both timeless and quietly contemporary.
His prints are celebrated for their technical mastery and emotional nuance, often focusing on intimate, everyday moments. Hashiguchi's legacy endures as a key contributor to the resurgence of Japanese woodblock art, with his works highly valued by collectors and enthusiasts of Japanese art prints.
The Artwork
Created in 1918, Woman Applying Powder reflects a period in Japan marked by rapid modernization and shifting cultural values. This artwork captures a private, contemplative moment, emphasizing the grace and dignity of daily rituals. Rather than presenting an idealized or theatrical scene, Hashiguchi invites viewers to appreciate the quiet beauty found in ordinary life, resonating with the Shin hanga movement's focus on personal experience and refined craftsmanship.
The print stands as a testament to the era's evolving notions of femininity and self-care, offering a window into the subtle transformations of Japanese society at the time. It complements other works in the oriental collection that celebrate domestic tranquility and understated elegance.
Style & Characteristics
The composition is vertically oriented, featuring a single woman absorbed in the act of powdering her face. Her smooth, pale skin and glossy black hair are rendered with exquisite precision, while the delicate kimono introduces gentle pattern and rhythm. The palette is restrained, dominated by soft whites, deep blacks, and subtle touches of red and green, creating an atmosphere of serenity and poise.
This refined approach results in an art print that feels calm and introspective, making it a harmonious addition to white toned wall decor or minimalist interiors. The overall effect is one of quiet sophistication, inviting viewers to pause and reflect.
In Interior Design
This vintage print is well-suited for spaces seeking a sense of calm and refinement, such as bedrooms, dressing areas, or softly lit hallways. Its vertical format makes it ideal for pairing with other vertical posters in a curated arrangement.
It complements Japandi, minimalist, and contemporary classic decor styles. Display it on warm white walls with dark wood or black lacquer accents, and consider echoing the print's subtle red or green hues in textiles or plants for a cohesive look.
