Japanese Print By Ono Bakufu | The Flower Cart

Artist: Ono Bakufu (1888-1976), 大野麦風
Title: The Flower cart (Hanaguruma, 花車)
Publisher: Kato hanga'in, 加藤版画院
Engraver: Kikuta, 菊田
Printer: Oono, 大野
Technique: nishiki-e, woodblock print
Materials: ink and colors on paper
Format: ōban yoko-e (30 × 40 cm)
Condition: very good
Date: between 1935 and 1945
Reference: AB2025005

Contemplative Beauty

This original edition by Ono Bakufu (1888-1976) depicts a flower cart (hanaguruma, 花車), one of those often used during festivals and spring ceremonies to transport elaborate floral arrangements. Adorned with geometric motifs and flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white, the chariot is beautifully highlighted against a gradient background of green and yellow. The flowers and plants are arranged in perfect harmony, reflecting traditional Japanese aesthetics and conveying a feeling of peace and serenity.

Ono Bakufu, Master of Refinement

An artist of the Shin-hanga movement, which saw the revival of printmaking during the first half of the 20^th century, Ono Bakufu delighted in depicting, as seen here, the beauty of Japanese nature. He often portrayed natural subjects—such as flowers, fish, and landscapes—with great delicacy.
His fascination with nature is particularly evident in his famous fish prints, published between 1936 and 1940, which depict marine specimens in their natural habitat with both great artistic sensitivity and meticulous attention to detail. Thanks to his delicate and refined style, Ono Bakufu’s artistic work continues to captivate and inspire lovers of Japanese art.