Hasui, Kawase (1883 – 1957), “Kotohira Shrine, Sanuki – Original Painting”

Notes: Titled in black ink in the left margin by the artist, "Sanuki, Kotohira Jinjya". Signed and sealed by the artist, lower left corner. The 1948 print (Hotei #511), "Konpira Shrine, Sanuki" was based upon this original watercolor painting. The final print version was published by S. Watanabe and printed by Ono Gintaro. There are subtle differences in the print, with the two pilgrims now at the railing and the couple, now a family of four. Located at 521m, halfway to the top of Mt. Zozu, the shrine stands at the end of a long path with 785 steps to the main shrine and a total of 1368 steps to the inner shrine. Since the Muromachi Period (1333-1573) pilgrimages to the shrine became popular, and even today hundreds of visitors climb the steps of Mt. Zozu each day. The principal "Kami" (God) of the shrine is associated with safe seafaring.