Japanese woodblock print, Goyō Hashiguchi, Woman combing her hair

Goyō Hashiguchi (1880-1921) was a prominent Japanese artist, widely regarded as one of the leading figures in the shin-hanga movement, which translates to "new prints." Born in Kagoshima to an artistic family, Hashiguchi displayed exceptional talent in drawing from a young age. He pursued formal studies at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts and initially gained recognition as an illustrator and designer before delving into ukiyo-e, the traditional Japanese woodblock print genre.

Hashiguchi quickly became renowned for his delicate and poetic depictions of women, capturing their grace and beauty with rare sensitivity. His works are characterized by meticulous attention to detail, whether in the intricate patterns of kimonos, the texture of hair, or the subtle expressions of faces. Hashiguchi's art combines the technical precision of ukiyo-e masters with a modernist touch, resulting in pieces that are both timeless and deeply reflective of Japanese culture in his era.

Although his career was tragically short, ending with his untimely death at 41, Goyō Hashiguchi left a lasting impact on Japanese art. His prints are now considered treasures, celebrated for their elegance and refinement, and they continue to influence contemporary artists.