Key Sato Artwork valuations, appraisals and auction estimates

Key Sato was born in Ōita Prefecture, Japan in 1906. An abstract painter, he mainly used the watercolor technique, together with mixed techniques.
From a young age he demonstrated a propensity for art, despite his father urging him to become a lawyer. Read the full biography

Key Sato was born in Ōita Prefecture, Japan in 1906. An abstract painter, he mainly used the watercolor technique, together with mixed techniques.
From a young age he demonstrated a propensity for art, despite his father urging him to become a lawyer. After attending the Kawabata Painting School in Tokyo, Sato studied at the Western Painting Department of the School of Fine Arts starting in 1926. In the following years he successfully participated in the Emperor and Dai Nibu-kai exhibitions. Between 1930 and 1934 he continued his studies at the Académie Calarossi in Paris, where he was soon selected for the Salon d'Automne. In 1936 he was one of the founders of the Shinseisaku-ha-kyôkai (New Creation Group). During the Second World War, together with other artists he was engaged on the front line, testifying to the various moments of the conflict with his drawings.
In 1952 Sato moved permanently to Paris. This change marks a watershed in his painting style: from now on he will dedicate himself to abstract art. Visit Greece, Italy, North Africa, Great Britain and the United States. He has exhibited all over the world. In 1958 he was invited to the 30th Venice Biennale and the following year to the 6th International Japanese Art Exhibition. He passed away at his residence in Japan in 1978.