- Shōjo to Temari (Girl with Bouncing Ball – Battledore Print) -

“Shōjo to Temari” (Girl with Bouncing Ball – Battledore Print) is an exquisite woodblock print by Shirō Kasamatsu (1898–1992). Rooted in the tradition of hagoita (battledore), the design depicts a charming young girl with a rubber ball, accompanied by a playful kitten peeking from the side.

The temari (handball) is a traditional Japanese toy with a long history and a New Year seasonal association. Originally crafted from thread wound around a core, rubber became widely used from the mid-Meiji era, allowing for the circulation of high-bouncing balls. This work is fascinating, as it offers a glimpse into the social and historical context of that era. Dominated by a palette of red, the print effectively highlights the subject’s endearing charm. The depiction of the cat is also rendered with exquisite beauty.

This particular print dates to the early Shōwa period and was published by Watanabe. Prints like this are rarely found on the market today.

Technique: Woodblock 
Paper size: top width 5 and 7/8 inches (15cm); bottom width 3 and 1/2 inches (9cm): length 15 inches (38 cm)
Date: 1930's
Signature: Artist’s signature with the artist’s red seal is in the upper right of the image. 
Condition: Overall, in good condition for its age, with minor paper creases, minor soiling, and subtle age-related wear.

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