Not sure who the artist is. The translation on the back that is written in Japanese explains this. I had a friend translate part of the description which says '25th main exhibition'. No idea what this means. My understand standing is that it originates from Meguro, Tokyo. I know that it it's difficult to find any information on this date in English.
1.7M X 1.2M
Hello, this item is a large oil painting on canvas dated 1989, measuring 1.7 x 1.2 meters, originating from Meguro, Tokyo. The composition depicts a canal scene with moored fishing boats and waterside architecture, rendered with a high degree of realism and atmospheric perspective. Inscriptions on the reverse in Japanese indicate a connection to an exhibition, with a partial translation referencing a “25th main exhibition.” This likely refers to a juried art society or municipal exhibition in Tokyo, where contemporary painters frequently presented works in the late 20th century. The signature visible on the front further suggests authorship by an exhibiting Japanese artist active in the 1980s.
As an unsigned or little-documented work in the Western art market, its value primarily lies in its aesthetic impact, large format, and regional interest. Japanese contemporary realist works from this era, when not tied to a well-known artist, tend to sell in the $500–$1,200 range at auction or through secondhand dealers. Should further research identify the exhibiting society and confirm the artist’s career, the value could increase significantly, with documented Japanese realist painters from the 1980s commanding between $2,000 and $5,000 depending on exhibition history and recognition. At present, a fair market estimate for this piece would be in the range of $800–$1,200.