Takahashi Hiroaki, also known as Shôtei, is thought to have produced over 500 woodblocks throughout his career. An exponent of the Shin-hanga (‘new prints’) movement — which sought to unite a traditional ukiyo-e sensibility with new attention to colour, light and linear perspectives inspired by Western aesthetics — Hiroaki was particularly popular with collectors in Europe and North America.

This selection of prints focuses on individuals moving through the landscape. Their faces are often looking in toward the scene, drawing the viewer into the journey ahead. Hiroaki’s keen consideration for atmospheric conditions has infused these works with a sense of travel and storytelling.