A superb image titled “Twilight at the Old Castle” by Hirai Baisen enclosed in the original wooden box signed Chikujo-so Baisen.He has used a combination of very wet washes with dry brisk strokes to create a classic scene by this artist.The approach of a solitary figure below sets this apart.It is performed with ink and light color on paper, bordered in a fine frame of patterned brocade.It is 26-1/2 x 90 inches (67 x 229 cm) and in fine condition.It features large ivory rollers, which will need to be changed if shipped outside Japan.
Hirai Baisen graduated the Kyoto Municipal School of Fine Arts and was a regular exhibitor with the Bunten from 1907-1931. Having worked in any number of styles, he was a true Jiyu-gakka who excelled in the early years of his career. However he did slowly withdraw from the competitive world of Japanese art beginning in the war years. His works are held by the National Museum of Modern Art in Tokyo, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and a plethora of important public and private collections.
