Yusui Toku “Unai” Series – ‘Kon Genzai Seppō’ 今現在説法 (Present Teaching) – 1978 Shōwa Era Limited Edition | Kaga Yuzen Style Washi Print

About the Artwork
This captivating piece from Yusui Toku’s “Unai” (うない) series is titled 今現在説法 (Kon Genzai Seppō / The Present Teaching) — one of the most profound and lyrical works in the artist’s Shōwa-era collection, created in 1978 as a limited edition of 50 prints.

It portrays a group of children forming a circle dance, rendered in delicate Kaga Yuzen–inspired kimono patterns. Their interlocked hands and joyful movement evoke the Buddhist notion of the interconnectedness of all beings and the beauty of the present moment.

Concept & Symbolism
The title Kon Genzai Seppō comes from Buddhist teachings — the idea that every sound, every gesture, and every moment of life itself is the Dharma being taught. Here, Yusui Toku transforms this philosophy into visual poetry, using children’s play as a metaphor for the purity of existence and spiritual harmony.

The soft green background, symbolic of nature and renewal, provides a meditative contrast to the intricate kimono motifs.
Printed on handmade washi paper, this work exemplifies the Shōwa revival of traditional aesthetics through a modern minimalist sensibility.

Inscription on Reverse

今現在説法 (Kon Genzai Seppō)
Reflects on the spiritual message that life and play are teachings of truth themselves — a philosophical essay on presence and awareness accompanies the print.

Artwork Details

• Artist: Yusui Toku (湯水得)

• Title: 今現在説法 (Kon Genzai Seppō / Present Teaching)

• Series: Unai (うない)

• Year: 1978 (Shōwa 53)

• Medium: Woodblock / mixed media print on handmade washi paper

• Style: Kaga Yuzen textile influence

• Edition: Limited (1 of 50)

• Publisher: Fuji Art Publishing (Japan)

Collector Highlights

• From the Unai series (全50図), a key work exploring Buddhist and poetic themes

• Rare Showa-era limited edition print

• Ideal for collectors of Japanese philosophical art, Kaga Yuzen, and Shin-hanga revival aesthetics

• Represents Yusui Toku’s ability to merge spiritual insight and textile-inspired design