Visiting Kiyomizu Temple
c. 1684/98
Medium
Hand-colored woodblock print; o-oban, tan-e
Dimensions
30.2 × 45.2 cm (11 7/8 × 17 13/16 in.)
Classification
woodblock print
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
25315
Art Historical Context
"Visiting Kiyomizu" by Sugimura Ji, created around 1684–98, captures the vibrant spirit of Edo-period Japan in a hand-colored woodblock print. an impressive 30.2 45.2 cm in the large o-oban format, tan-e print exemplifies early ukiyo artistry, depicting elegant figures making a pilgrimage to the iconic Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto—a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its wooden stage overlooking the city. Sugimura Jihei, a masterful printmaker of the late 17th century, contributed to the "floating world" genre, which celebrated everyday pleasures and scenic outings. Tan-e prints like this one p...