洛北十景：鞍马寺（Kurama-dera Temple） - woodblockprint - Masao Ido 井堂雅夫 (1945-2016) - 日本 - 平成时期（1989-2019年）

Ido Masao(井堂雅夫)
Heisei Ukiyo-e – Kyoto One Hundred Views, Vol. 3
Rakuhoku Ten Views: Kurama-dera Temple(鞍馬寺)
Woodblock print / Publisher: Kaneido

This evocative woodblock print by celebrated Kyoto printmaker Ido Masao belongs to his renowned Heisei-era Ukiyo-e: Kyoto One Hundred Views series, a monumental project devoted to capturing the timeless spirit of Kyoto’s landscapes through the traditional language of Japanese woodblock printing. In this work, the artist turns his gaze toward Kurama-dera, the legendary mountain temple in northern Kyoto long associated with mysticism, ascetic training, and ancient folklore.

The composition draws the viewer upward along the snow-covered stone staircase, a symbolic path of ascent both physical and spiritual. Crimson lanterns punctuate the scene like guiding lights, their vivid color standing in poetic contrast to the hushed whites and soft greys of winter. Two small figures climb the steps beneath umbrellas, quietly reinforcing the vastness and serenity of the sacred setting. Rather than depicting a dramatic moment, Ido captures a suspended instant of stillness — the kind of silence felt when snow absorbs sound and time seems to slow.

Kurama-dera itself holds a special place in Japanese cultural imagination. Founded in the 8th century and steeped in esoteric Buddhist tradition, it is associated with legends of mountain spirits, warrior monks, and the youthful training of the swordsman Minamoto no Yoshitsune. By choosing this site, Ido is not merely illustrating architecture; he is translating centuries of myth, devotion, and seasonal beauty into visual form. The snow in this print does more than indicate winter — it acts as a veil between worlds, softening outlines and suggesting the invisible presence of history.

Technically, the work demonstrates Ido Masao’s mastery of modern shin-hanga sensibility combined with classical ukiyo-e craftsmanship. Delicate color gradations, carefully layered pigments, and precise carving create depth while preserving clarity of line. The restrained palette emphasizes atmosphere rather than spectacle, allowing the viewer to experience the scene almost meditatively.

As part of a curated series dedicated to Kyoto’s most iconic and poetic locations, this print is not only a beautiful artwork but also a cultural document — a visual pilgrimage through one of Japan’s most storied sacred landscapes. Works from this series are highly regarded among collectors for their craftsmanship, aesthetic refinement, and enduring connection to Kyoto’s historical identity.

Displayed in a room, this piece radiates a quiet presence. It does not demand attention; instead, it gently draws the viewer inward, much like the temple steps themselves invite ascent. For collectors of Japanese prints, lovers of Kyoto, or admirers of contemplative landscape art, this is a work that offers both visual elegance and narrative depth — a serene moment from an eternal city, preserved in ink and color.

[Size of the artwork]

Overall size
34.7×42.3cm
Picture
24.5×34.9cm


[Condition]
Excellent condition.

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