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Inoue Yuichi — Go (Samurai, Hero), 1960
Inoue Yuichi

Go (Samurai, Hero), 1960

Inoue Yuichi's "Go (Samurai, Hero)" from 1960 exemplifies the Gutai movement's exploration of abstraction through gestural mark making and spontaneous action. The work features bold, dynamic brushstrokes in black ink that evoke both the discipline of calligraphy and the unbounded energy of abstract expressionism, reflecting the artist's interest in bridging Japanese traditional aesthetics with contemporary avant garde practice. The title's reference to the samurai suggests themes of honor and directness that parallel Inoue's own approach to the immediacy of artistic creation.

Notes

LITERATURE Masaomi Unagami ed., Yu-ichi (Yu-ichi Inoue); Catalogue Raisonné of the Works, vol. 1, 1949-1969. (Tokyo: Unac Tokyo, 1998). Plate 60002. Conditions of sale Brought to you by Takaaki Murakami (村上高明) Vice President, Specialist and Head of Department | Japanese and Korean Art Check the condition report or get in touch for additional information about this TMURAKAMI@CHRISTIES.COM +1 212 636 2160 VIEW CONDITION REPORT

🔨 Auction Lot

Japanese and Korean Art

March 24, 2026

Estimate: $60,000$80,000

Lot 18

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About this work

Inoue Yuichi, Go (Samurai, Hero), 1960

Inoue Yuichi's "Go (Samurai, Hero)" from 1960 exemplifies the Gutai movement's exploration of abstraction through gestural mark making and spontaneous action. The work features bold, dynamic brushstrokes in black ink that evoke both the discipline of calligraphy and the unbounded energy of abstract expressionism, reflecting the artist's interest in bridging Japanese traditional aesthetics with contemporary avant garde practice. The title's reference to the samurai suggests themes of honor and directness that parallel Inoue's own approach to the immediacy of artistic creation.

Seen at
Christie's, London, United Kingdom

Related themes

20th Century, Calligraphic Style, Energetic Composition, Japanese Artist, Heroic Theme, Samurai, Abstract Expressionism, Gestural Abstraction, Bold Brushwork, Ink on Paper

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