MORI YOSHITOSHI

Mori Yoshitoshi (1898–1992) was a celebrated Japanese artist known for reviving the traditional stencil print technique called kappa-zuri. Born in Tokyo, he studied at the Kawabata Art School and trained under folk art and stencil pioneers Yanagi Sōetsu and Serizawa Keisuke. Mori became a key member of the Japan Print Association and the Japan Artists Association. Today, his stencil prints are included in world-renowned institutions such as the British Museum, MoMA New York, LACMA Los Angeles, the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, and the National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo.

Throughout his life, Yoshitoshi Mori focused on depicting the daily lives and spirit of ordinary people from Old Edo. His prints showcase kabuki actors, artisans, festival dancers, and dynamic scenes filled with movement and emotion. Additionally, he explored literary themes, especially from The Tale of Genji and The Tale of the Heike. In many of his works, warriors ride startled horses while women and actors appear in elegant and dramatic poses. Consequently, these themes gave his prints timeless relevance.

Unlike many traditional artists, Mori brought bold colour and powerful gestures to the kappa-zuri technique. He revived this centuries-old method—once used for textile dyeing—and transformed it into fine art. Because of this innovation, collectors around the world continue to seek his work. Today, Hanga Ten is proud to offer a rare selection of Mori Yoshitoshi’s Japanese stencil prints, including the iconic Tiger Killer. His unique blend of folklore, movement, and visual strength ensures his continued influence in the world of Japanese printmaking.