Koitsu's atmospheric night and temple scenes are his most sought-after subjects. Doi Hangaten first editions (1930s) are the most desirable; Watanabe editions are more common.
The Great Lantern of Senso-ji, Asakusa's main temple, is one of Tokyo's most recognizable landmarks — a massive paper lantern hanging in the inner Hozomon Gate that marks the approach to the main hall. Koitsu renders it at night or in rain, the lantern's warm glow illuminating the gate while the temple's five-storied pagoda rises in the background above. The scene captures Asakusa at its most atmospheric, the intersection of the sacred and the commercial that made the district so distinctively Tokyo.
Woodblock print
1928
Color lithograph
1930
Color lithograph
1948
Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Great Lantern at Asakusa Temple was created by Tsuchiya Koitsu (土屋光逸).
Great Lantern at Asakusa Temple uses Bokashi, on woodblock print.
Great Lantern at Asakusa Temple was published by Doi Sadaichi.
Great Lantern at Asakusa Temple depicts urban scenes, temples & shrines, and daily life, set at Asakusa.
