Daigo Denpoin Temple, Kiyoto
by Kawase Hasui
- Medium:
- Woodblock print
- Source:
- Japanese Art Open Database
- Image courtesy of
- Japanese Art Open Database
Description
This print depicts the Denpoin (also Denboin) precinct at Daigo-ji, a Shingon Buddhist temple complex in the Fushimi ward of Kyoto ("Kiyoto" in the title reflects an older romanization). Daigo-ji, founded in 905, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its five-story pagoda — the oldest standing structure in Kyoto Prefecture — and its cherry-blossom viewing tradition dating to a famous 1598 hanami held by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Hasui may have depicted the pagoda rising above cherry trees in bloom, the pond garden within the Sanbo-in sub-temple grounds, or the stone-paved approach between ancient cryptomeria trees. The composition likely employs the soft gradation (bokashi) characteristic of his architectural and garden subjects, with pale spring light filtered through cherry canopy or early morning mist. The temple's vertical and horizontal geometries would have provided a strong structural counterpoint to organic botanical elements.
More Prints by Kawase Hasui
More Temples & Shrines Prints
Fushimi Inari Temple
伏見稲荷
Woodblock print
The Compound of the Tenman Shrine at Kameido in the Snow (Kameido Tenmangu keidai no yuki), from the series "Famous Places in the Eastern Capital (Toto meisho)"
c. 1832/38
Color woodblock print; oban
Temple with lanterns
Woodblock print
A Section of the Byodo Temple at Uji (Uji Byodoin no ichibu), from the series "Souvenirs of Travel, Second Series (Tabi miyage dai nishu)"
Uji Byodoin no ichibu
1921
Color woodblock print; oban
Featured in Collections
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Frequently Asked Questions
Daigo Denpoin Temple, Kiyoto was created by Kawase Hasui (川瀬巴水).
Daigo Denpoin Temple, Kiyoto depicts temples & shrines.