Artist: Kawase Hasui
Medium: Original Japanese Woodblock Print
Series Title: Collection of Scenic Views of Japan II, Kansai Edition. Calendar & Poster Series - Tourist Bureau of the Japanese Railway Ministry
Edition: First and only
Date: c.1933
Publisher: Shimbi Shoin
Reference No.: Hotei #317A
Size: 15 x 10 -1/4 "
Condition: Very fine
Notes:
Exceedingly rare, as a loose full sheet with the margins still intact. Normally attached to a calendar for the Japanese Government Railways, this example retains the full margins and is offered with the original studio folder/label.
This beautiful and rare work is the only known Hasui design completed by the publisher, Shimbi Shoin (ca1899-1938). This largely "unknown" Hasui print, was not listed in the comprehensive 1979 catalogue raisonné of Hasui. - Hotei Vol. 1
Kasuga shrine is renowned for being the finest example of the Kasuga-zukuri style of architecture, which dates back to the early 8th century and incorporates Chinese-style roofs and red, gold and vermilion decoration. One of the special traits of Kasuga Shrine is the numerous stone lanterns scattered throughout its precinct.