1988, woodblock print, signed in pencil to lower margin: 蓮華寺 Rengeji Temple, '88, Masao Ido, AP, presented under glass with mat in dark wood frame.

Frame dimensions 14 1/2 x 24 in.; Sight size 8 3/4 x 17 1/2 in.

Private Collection, Japan and Florida Private Collection, Japan and Florida

Purchased and framed in Japan.

Masao Ido was born in 1945 and lived and worked in Kyoto. He studied with Koho and Otsubo Shigechika. He achieved an international reputation as one of Japan's leading contemporary artists, and his works are included in the collections of the Tokyo National Museum and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. He was also a recognized teacher, having taught other contemporary masters such as Seiji Sano.

Known for his serene landscape prints of traditional Japanese subjects, Ido found his inspiration in Kyoto and the surrounding countryside. His tranquil images of private gardens, quiet streets, temple gates, and hillside views reflect his interest in nature and the changing seasons. A simplicity of form and a masterful layering of subtle color to achieve a sense of depth and richness distinguish his prints.

Very good color; some toning to paper; not examined outside of the frame.