The vermillion Shinkyo Bridge at Nikko is one of Japan's most recognizable landmarks, and Kasamatsu's shin-hanga treatment elevates it beyond mere topographic record. Watanabe lifetime editions sell for $1,000-$2,500. The bridge's vivid red against the green gorge below creates a natural color harmony that has made this one of his steadily popular compositions.
The vermillion Sacred Bridge (Shinkyo) at Nikko crosses the Daiya River in 1941, its brilliant lacquered arches reflected in the water below while the surrounding forest shows the rich greens of summer or the fresh growth of spring. One of Japan's most celebrated architectural landmarks, the Shinkyo was historically restricted to the passage of shoguns and imperial messengers; the bridge's theatrical color against the forest and river made it a classic subject for printmakers. Kasamatsu's 1941 rendering captures both its formal beauty and its vivid chromatic statement.
Wakasa Kugushiko
1920
Color woodblock print; oban
Woodblock print
1934
Color woodblock print; oban
n.d.
Woodblock print; ishizuri-e, section of harimaze sheet
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Sacred Bridge at Nikko (日光 神橋) was created by Shiro Kasamatsu (笠松紫浪) in 1941.
Sacred Bridge at Nikko uses Bokashi, Nishiki-e, and Moku-hanga, on color woodblock print.
Sacred Bridge at Nikko was published by Watanabe Shozaburo (1941).
Sacred Bridge at Nikko depicts landscapes and bridges, set at Nikko.
Sacred Bridge at Nikko measures 39 × 25.7 cm (Oban format).
