Mt. Asama in Early Spring

About this work

Mineral pigments (iwa-enogu) are layered over kumohada washi—a textured Japanese paper—to render Mount Asama in early spring. Lingering snow on the peak contrasts with muted ochres and cool greys across the foothills, marking the threshold between winter and the first signs of warmth. The granular surface of the mineral pigments lends tactile weight to the mountain's mass. Grounded in the artist's practice of painting landscapes from direct observation during his travels, the work conveys a specific quality of light and atmosphere rather than an idealized vista.