<b>CELADON BATH</b>Sarah Brayer1994<B>SOLD</B></em>

Details

Sarah Brayer is an American artist who works in both Japan and the United States. She is internationally known for her poured washi paperworks, aquatint, and woodblock prints. In the 70s Brayer became interested in Japanese aesthetics through the color aquatints of Mary Cassatt and Japanese ceramics. Arriving in Japan in 1979, she studied etching with Yoshiko Fukuda and Japanese woodblock printing with Toshi Yoshida, the son of influential woodblock artist Hiroshi Yoshida. Her interest in color gradation was piqued by the woodblock technique, and she subsequently applied similar gradations to her color aquatints.

This work from 1994 demonstrates Brayer’s fascination with color acquaint and Japanese aesthetics. The design features a nude in a natural pool of water. The figure is partially submerged—her left knee is leaning against a rock while her right leg explores the water’s temperature. The composition is quiet and contemplative. The active agent in the composition is the light filling the space and traveling on the surface of the water. The print’s title is a reference to the pale blue glaze that is used in traditional Asian ceramics. Brayer’s treatment of the scene, particularly with the gradation of light and color that advances throughout the composition, demonstrates a sophisticated aquatint printing style that directly draws its inspiration from woodblock prints. 

Connoisseur's Note

This is print is an early work by the artist. Brayer’s current work is more focused on her paperworks and original paintings on paper. Consequently, acquaints by the artist are seldom offered. The print is numbered, titled, and signed by the artist at the bottom margin. The print is in an exceedingly fine state of preservation.