19

Viewing Cherry Blossoms at Ueno Park and Autumn at Asakusa

Hishikawa Moronobu

Viewing Cherry Blossoms at Ueno Park and Autumn at Asakusa exhibition

Viewing Cherry Blossoms at Ueno Park and Autumn at Asakusa

High-resolution facsimiles

Material
printed, sprinkled gold on washi paper
Period of creation
Tsuzuri Project Stage 4 2010–2011
Recipient
Natural History Museum and Institute, Chiba

Original

Artist
Hishikawa Moronobu
Historical era
Edo (17th century)
Material
ink, color, and sprinkled gold on washi paper
Medium
Pair of six-fold screens
Size
Each screen H179.9 × W382.3 cm
Collection
Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art

Description

This work was done by Hishikawa Moronobu who is known for establishing the block print as an art form that is to be appreciated as a single picture, and as the founder of Ukiyoe prints. The right screen depicts an autumn scene, bustling with prayer goers to the Sensoji Temple, scenes of Asakusa, and folks enjoying a boat ride along the Sumida River. The left screen depicts spring with merry makers observing cherry blossoms, and famous sites around Ueno Kaneiji and Shinobazu pond. The two screens illustrate how commoners enjoyed the seasons in the Edo era, while the brilliant colored garments and hair styles depict what life was like at that time. Moronobu drew the lifestyle of commoners during the Edo era in great detail, and created many artifacts including books and paintings by both woodblock and hand. His best known works are Mikaeri Bijin ("A Beauty Looking Back"), and Kabukizu Byobu ("Kabuki Drama").

How the Works Are Created

How the Works Are Created

This section introduces the production process of high resolution facsimiles by combining Canon’s latest imaging technology and the authentic craftsmanship of Kyoto in the Tsuzuri Project.

About the Tsuzuri Project

About the Tsuzuri Project

This section shares the significance and passion behind the Tsuzuri Project and how we utilize the high resolution facsimiles of precious cultural assets, which are designated as national treasures and important cultural assets, and Japanese artworks that have left Japan.