Arashiyama In Spring
by Kawase Hasui
- Medium:
- Woodblock print
- Source:
- Japanese Art Open Database
- Image courtesy of
- Japanese Art Open Database
Description
A third spring treatment of Arashiyama, this print likely varies from related editions in the distribution of cherry blossoms, the tonal handling of the mountain backdrop, or the quality of light suggested by the sky gradation. Hasui's serialized approach to famous sites — producing multiple views across seasons and years — reflects both the commercial demand for popular landscape subjects and his personal commitment to capturing distinct atmospheric conditions. The Oi River valley at Arashiyama provided a range of compositional possibilities: views from the south bank looking toward the mountain, views from the bridge, and views from Kameyama Park above. Each version in this group represents a distinct pictorial interpretation rather than a simple reprint. The washi ground, typically a thin but strong kozo-fiber paper, is visible in unpigmented areas, contributing a warm tone to the overall image.



