Key value factors: As self-carved and self-printed works, sosaku-hanga value is tied to the artist's reputation and edition size. Larger formats, earlier editions, and historically significant works command the highest prices.
A lively woodblock print showing people gathered beneath cherry blossoms at Mii-dera (Onjoji Temple) near Lake Biwa, enjoying Benkei chikara mochi, a local rice cake named after the legendary warrior monk Benkei. The scene combines hanami (flower viewing) culture with regional food tradition, depicting visitors seated under flowering trees while vendors prepare the famous sticky rice cakes. Mii-dera's cherry blossoms have drawn crowds since the Heian period, and the association with Benkei, who according to legend dragged the temple's enormous bell up the mountain, adds a layer of folklore to the festive atmosphere. Nakazawa captures the communal pleasure of springtime celebration, where seasonal beauty, local food, and legendary history intersect at a single beloved site.
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
People eating Benkei Chikara mochi under cherry blossoms at Mii Temple — 三井寺の弁慶力餅 was created by Hiromitsu Nakazawa (中沢弘光).
People eating Benkei Chikara mochi under cherry blossoms at Mii Temple — 三井寺の弁慶力餅 depicts figures, cherry blossoms, and temples & shrines.
