Kiyochika: Itsukushima (Sold)

Artist: Kobayashi Kiyochika
Title: Itsukushima
Series: Views of the Famous Sights of Japan (Nihon meishô zue)
Date: 1896

The famous “floating” torii at sea at Itsukushima, also known as Miyajima Shrine. We see a sailboat passing nearby, giving a helpful indication of the size of the structure. The shrine stands on the shore. A strong contrast to Kiyochika’s war designs, the defining feature of this series is its utter peace and tranquility and painterly feeling. It followed closely the Sino-Japanese war, so perhaps Kiyochika was relieved to focus on tranquil, traditional sites and everyday activities. The shrine complex is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Condition: Excellent impression, color and condition. Extensive woodgrain evident.
Dimensions: ôban 36.2 x 24.5 cm
Publisher: Matsuki Heikichi
Literature: See Henry Smith’s “Kiyochika: Artist of Meiji Japan” plate 114, page 105.
Signature: Kiyochika

SKU: KYC337