Hands and Hands (手と手と)

Medium: Woodcut
Dimensions: 10 x 6 inches (image) 12 1/4 x 8 1/2 inches (sheet)
Signature: Signed
Artist details: Japanese, 1940
Date finished: 2002
Edition: of 77

Recommended by Emma (Marketing & Communications Manager):
The need for human touch and connection, reaching for a hand in the dark, is beautifully conveyed here. The tension of how close each pair comes, and the anticipation that some of them might just be about to touch, is masterfully done. The quality of the shapes with their rough edges, the soft texture of the ink and paper, and the vertical composition all compliment each other in a way that is incredibly pleasing.