Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This is an original watercolor and ink painting by acclaimed Japanese landscape artist Rikichiro Tomita, depicting snow falling over Hirosaki Station in Aomori Prefecture. The piece is accompanied by the published art book 'Teikyo no aru Fukei' (Scenery with Railway Stations), which specifically features this exact original work.
Story
In 1978, Japanese artist Rikichiro Tomita captured the quiet winter atmosphere of northern Japan's Hirosaki Station in ink and watercolor. This exact painting was later selected and published in his celebrated art book dedicated to historic Japanese train stations. Having both the original painting and the published book where it appears creates an exceptional provenance connection.
Maker / Origin
Rikichiro Tomita (富田利吉郎, 1919–2006) was a prominent Japanese watercolorist and illustrator renowned for capturing nostalgia, rural life, and Japan's evolving transportation landscape. He traveled extensively across Japan's prefectures to document historic railway stations, wooden train depots, and seasonal scenery before modernization altered them forever.
Condition & Value
The watercolor appears in very good condition with strong pigment and no apparent foxing or moisture staining visible through the glass. Framed under glass with the original gallery label and seals intact on the backing board. The accompanying art book appears complete and well-preserved. Excellent overall state.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.