Foot of Mount Ashitaka (1932)

Takahashi Hiroaki, also known by the artist names Shotei or Komei, was a pivotal Japanese woodblock artist born in Tokyo in 1871 and active until 1945. He emerged as a leading figure in the Shin Hanga, or "new prints," movement in the 20th century, contributing significantly to the revival of the traditional ukiyo-e style. His artistic journey began under the tutelage of his uncle, Matsumoto Fuko, a nihonga painter, leading him to work at the Imperial Household Agency's design section. Takahashi's work was characterized by hundreds of woodblock prints that demonstrated both a respect for traditional Japanese techniques and a modern aesthetic sensibility. This blend of styles positioned him as a pioneering artist in the shin-hanga movement, revitalizing a classic art form with a contemporary approach.