Ido Masao(井堂雅夫) Heisei Ukiyo-e – Kyoto One Hundred Views, Vol. 4 Rakuchu Ten Views: Higashi Honganji Temple (東本願寺) Woodblock print / Publisher: Kaneido In the historic heart of Kyoto stands Higashi Honganji Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan and a place deeply connected to the spiritual life of the city. Founded in the early 17th century, the temple serves as the head temple of the Ōtani branch of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism, one of the largest Buddhist traditions in Japan. The temple complex is particularly renowned for its monumental wooden architecture. Its main hall, the Goei-dō, is among the largest wooden religious buildings in the world, a breathtaking example of traditional Japanese carpentry. Constructed without modern metal reinforcements, the immense structure reflects the remarkable craftsmanship of Japanese temple builders and the collective devotion of the Buddhist community that supported its construction. For centuries, Higashi Honganji has been more than simply a religious monument. It has functioned as a gathering place for pilgrims, monks, and townspeople alike, forming an integral part of Kyoto’s cultural and spiritual landscape. Visitors entering the temple grounds often experience a striking sense of calm as the vast wooden halls rise above the surrounding city. In this woodblock print, Masao Ido presents a fascinating perspective of the temple within the modern urban environment of Kyoto. The elegant rooflines of the historic temple dominate the foreground, while in the distance the Kyoto Tower rises above the skyline—an unmistakable symbol of contemporary Kyoto. This contrast between past and present is central to Ido’s artistic vision. Rather than isolating the temple as a relic of history, he portrays it as part of a living city where ancient spirituality and modern life coexist naturally. Cars move quietly along the street, pedestrians pass beneath the temple trees, and daily life continues in the shadow of centuries-old architecture. The composition invites the viewer into the scene through the broad avenue leading toward the temple gates. The carefully balanced perspective, the gentle color gradations of the sky, and the subtle interplay between architecture and landscape demonstrate Ido’s mastery of traditional Japanese woodblock printing. Through this work, Ido offers a quiet reflection on Kyoto itself—a city where centuries-old temples and modern urban life coexist in remarkable harmony. For collectors of Japanese woodblock prints, Masao Ido’s Kyoto series is admired for its ability to capture the timeless spirit of Japan’s ancient capital, blending traditional craftsmanship with a modern artistic sensibility. [Size of the artwork] Overall size 34.7×42.3cm Picture 24.5×34.9cm [Condition] Excellent condition. Please check the photos before bidding. Any taxes related to international shipping must be borne by the purchaser. ※Recently, there has been an increase in products being returned to Japan without paying customs duties and consumption tax upon receipt. It is the buyer's responsibility to pay customs duties and consumption tax, so please be sure to pay them. Tax rates vary by country, so please check in advance. Occasionally, customs or the delivery company in your country may contact you for customs clearance via phone or email. Kindly ensure you are available to respond. Failure to do so may result in the parcel being returned to me, incurring additional shipping fees for reshipment. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. I will pack the item securely, but there may be cases where the item is repackaged at customs or damaged upon arrival due to a mistake by the shipping company. If this happens, please contact me immediately. Please promptly send me a photo of the item when it arrives and a photo of the damage to the item. We will provide refunds depending on the situation.