Linocut - A Rare Ainu Linocut of Yamasen Bridge

Built in 1899, this vermilion iron bridge quietly spanning the Chitose River was used by the Oji Paper Company's narrow-gauge industrial railway known as the "Yamasen" (Mountain Line). The Yamsen line primarily transported timber and general passengers in the local area, before ceasing operations in 1951.

Young Ainu printmakers have painstakingly carved contours and textures on a humble block of linoleum to simulate local scenery surrounding Lake Shikotusu. Japanese linocut tools require more skill to handle and are typically only used by advanced artists in the West.

Limited edition. Professionally framed and ready to hang.

Dimensions: 24.5 cm height, 20 cm width

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Product Story

"Konichiwa", the staff behind the desk at Aomori's ferry terminal greet us with typical Japanese alacrity. It's 7 a.m. and we feel utterly exhausted. Having driven over 700km from Tokyo's Narita airport over the past couple of days to make it this far, it is perhaps inevitable.

• Read about the landscape that inspires these linocuts