Artist: Kawase Hasui
Medium: Original Japanese Woodblock Print
Series Title: Souvenirs of Travel, Second Series
Edition: First and only
Date: 1921
Publisher: S. Watanabe Color Print Co.
Reference No.: Hotei #74
Size: 15 -1/2 x 10 -1/4 "
Condition: Very fine
Notes:
An extremely rare and elusive work, that was completed prior to the Great Kantō Earthquake in 1923. Likely, a very low print run due to the less appealing mood of this image, when compared to other commercially successful designs from the same period.
Koshoji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple located in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture. Founded in 1233 by Zen Master Dogen, it is known as the oldest Soto Zen temple in Japan. Initially situated in Fukakusa, Kyoto, it was relocated to its current location in Uji in 1645.
The temple complex of Koshoji was built using structures from Fushimi Castle, giving it a unique architectural style. The main buildings include the Hondo (main hall), Daishoin (great study hall), Kaisando (founder’s hall), Tenjukudo, treasure house, and Sodo (monks’ hall).