**David Kutcher**

“My goal is to introduce people to this amazing niche of art and connect them with a piece of art that speaks to something within them. Connecting people with something that adds value to their lives and brings them a bit more joy in their lives is my goal through Moonlit Sea Prints.”

On the new episode of the Auction Waves Podcast—our exclusive audio presentation—we interview a distinguished expert on the art and passion of collecting Japanese woodblock prints. Guest David Kutcher of Moonlit Sea Prints in Easthampton, Massachusetts joins Elizabeth McLeod for a lively discussion of the history and the appreciation of these delicate and intriguing works, including a detailed analysis of the works of Kawase Hasui, one of whose notable prints appears in our Japanese Art and Antiques Auction on May 2nd, 2025.

Kawase Hasui (1883-1957) was one of the most significant Japanese woodblock artists of the 20th Century, and if you are interested in learning more about our woodblock prints—or if you are looking to acquire a limited edition and elevate your collection with this exquisite Kawase Hasui "Tokaido Nissaka" print, we currently have one on offer—in addition to more than 50 antique Japanese woodblock prints.

For a complete overview of Lot #1164, click here.

*Lot # 1164: Kawase Hasui, Tokaido Nissaka* (Japan, 1883-1957)

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Thomaston Place Auction Galleries is New England’s premier international auction company, and a leader in discovering antiques and fine art treasures by offering Free Appraisals each Tuesday at the gallery, creating fundraiser events for civic and charitable organizations, and providing house call appraisal services. The Team’s combined expertise in researching and marketing antiques and fine art has earned Thomaston Place the respect of buyers, collectors and experts worldwide.

Elizabeth McLeod brings forty years experience in radio production and presentation to "Auction Waves," along with a deep understanding and appreciation for mass culture of the past hundred and fifty years. She has written and published extensively about the history of American broadcasting, and has appeared as an expert in television documentary series ranging from "History Detectives" to "American Masters." "History is one of my passions," she says, "and storytelling is another. I'm looking forward to both the challenge and the fun we'll have in learning the stories behind the many fascinating objects that pass through the gallery."

Prepare to be captivated by another centerpiece of our collection Japanese woodblock prints, as among the exquisite showcase currently on preview, is a rare antique woodblock print by Tsuchiya Koitsu: "Evening at Ushigome"—a signed and sealed Shin Hanga with publisher's seals in the margins. This is another prime example of a rare antique Japanese woodblock print by the celebrated Tsuchiya Koitsu that not only exemplifies the exceptional caliber of Japanese prints available, but also serves as a tangible link to a pivotal and transformative era in Japanese printmaking history.

*Lot 1249 TSUCHIYA KOITSU (Japan, 1870-1949)*

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A Special Thanks to Our Guest David Kutcher of Moonlit Sea Prints

Founded by David Kutcher in East Hampton, Massachusetts, Moonlit Sea Prints is a gallery dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Japanese woodblock printmaking. The mission of Moonlit Sea Prints, is to make the acquisition of antique Japanese woodblock prints to be “easy, informative, and enjoyable” and also offers excellent resources that are available online.

Immerse yourself in the enduring allure of several pivotal and mystical Japanese artists whose imagery continues to captivate. This is your opportunity to not only own an exquisite Japanese woodblock print but to actively engage with the past. Last chance to secure your place – register for the event today!

For assistance with bidding and registration, please telephone: +1 (207) 354-8141

Register to bid online at live.thomastonauction.com

For all other enquiries please contact us.