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Koshiro Onchi stands as one of Japan’s most influential printmakers of the 20th century, and a key figure in the pioneering Sosaku Hanga movement. His groundbreaking achievements in printmaking includes his creation of Japan's first abstract print in 1915, marking a monumental moment in the evolution of Japanese art. Onchi’s ability to navigate both abstract and representational forms of art with seamless precision allowed him to produce a body of work that is stylistically varied and deeply layered. His prints are celebrated for their emotional depth, often evoking powerful responses that prompt deep reflection. The expressiveness of Onchi’s work is unmatched, with a unique ability to capture a raw, thought-provoking energy that continues to resonate with viewers today.

Although Onchi is primarily celebrated for his contributions to printmaking, his artistic journey began in the realm of Western-style drawing and painting. Early in his career, Onchi created numerous self-portraits in both ink and oil, many of which predate 1930. This particular ink-on-paper study highlights Onchi's fascination with the discipline of self-portraiture, a tradition that was introduced to Japan during the Meiji period. The work is deliberate and contemplative, offering a poignant glimpse into the artist’s inner world. The composition features small, expressive marks, reminiscent of brushstrokes, which delicately form the contours of Onchi’s face. These strokes fill out the image with an almost ethereal lightness, showcasing Onchi's mastery of negative space and light. This technique would later become a hallmark of his more abstract works, where the interplay of form, color, and space became fundamental to his aesthetic. Beyond its representational qualities, this portrait carries a psychological potency, anticipating the psychological depth found in Onchi’s later designs.

Connoisseur's Note

This drawing forms part of a select body of work created by Onchi in late July and early August of 1915. A handful of similar works are known to exist, with examples housed in prestigious collections such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the Honolulu Museum of Art. One notable piece was also featured in the Christie's Juda Collection Sale of 1998. This particular work is a rare and exceptional example of Onchi’s early portraiture, in outstanding condition, offering a unique glimpse into the artist's formative years and artistic evolution.