Snow at Shiba Park

Shiba Park (Shiba koen), established in 1873 as one of Tokyo's first public parks, occupies the grounds surrounding Zojoji Temple in Minato ward. This second rendering of the park in snow likely varies from related compositions in viewpoint, season depth, or the specific trees and pathways featured. Hasui documented Shiba Park across numerous prints over his career, returning to subjects within the park grounds as his technical range developed. Within the park, the combination of mature pine and deciduous trees, stone lanterns, and the looming presence of Zojoji Temple's roof lines gave Hasui material for compositions that balance organic and architectural elements under snow. The distinctive Hasui technique of layering cool blue-grey bokashi across the middle and upper tonal registers to suggest overcast winter light is likely present here, alongside precise rendering of snow accumulation on branch and stone surfaces. Multiple editions reflect the sustained commercial success of this subject category.