Sadao Uetani – "Kyō Hyakkei No. 12: View of Mount Hiei as Borrowed Scenery" – Shakkei Landscape – Original woodblock print by Sadao Uetani depicting Ryōan-ji's famous Zen rock garden – Part of the "Kyō Hyakkei" (Kyoto One Hundred Views) series, celebrating Kyoto's UNESCO heritage sites – Contemplative composition capturing the minimalist beauty of Japan's most revered karesansui garden Summary: This is an original woodblock print by Sadao Uetani, number 4 in his "Kyō Hyakkei" (Kyoto One Hundred Views) series. The print depicts Ryōan-ji's stone garden (龍安寺石庭), one of the most iconic Zen gardens in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The karesansui (dry landscape) garden consists of fifteen rocks arranged on a bed of raked white gravel, designed to inspire contemplation and spiritual reflection. Uetani's rendering captures the garden's stark simplicity, subtle shadows, and the play of light across stone and gravel. This print appeals to collectors of Japanese art, enthusiasts of Zen aesthetics, and those drawn to minimalist design rooted in centuries of philosophical tradition. Ryōan-ji Temple, established in 1450, is home to Japan's most famous rock garden. The garden's fifteen stones are arranged in such a way that no matter where you stand, at least one stone is always obscured from view – a design detail that has inspired centuries of interpretation and contemplation. Sadao Uetani's "Kyō Hyakkei" series honours Kyoto's cultural landmarks through the medium of woodblock printing, a craft with deep roots in Japanese art history. Uetani's approach balances reverence for tradition with a modern sensibility, resulting in prints that feel both timeless and contemporary. His work aligns with the shin-hanga (new prints) and sōsaku-hanga (creative prints) movements, which sought to revitalise woodblock printing in the 20th century by blending classical techniques with individual artistic vision. The print likely presents a low, horizontal view of the stone garden, emphasising the raked gravel patterns, the placement of rocks, and the surrounding earthen wall or foliage. Uetani's colour palette is restrained – soft greys, whites, muted greens, and earth tones – mirroring the garden's own minimalist aesthetic. The printmaking technique showcases careful carving and layering of pigments, creating subtle gradations and textures that evoke the meditative quality of the garden itself. This is a signed, limited-edition work, confirming its status as an original print. In contemporary interiors, this print functions as a visual meditation. Displayed in a study, bedroom, or minimalist living space, it invites quiet contemplation and harmonises beautifully with neutral palettes, natural materials, and uncluttered design. The horizontal composition suits wide wall spaces or can be grouped with other prints from the series. Framed with care – perhaps in a simple wooden frame with subtle matting – the print becomes a refined focal point that celebrates the intersection of art, philosophy, and landscape. Condition: The print shows signs consistent with age and handling. Please review the images carefully for details regarding paper condition, colour saturation, and any minor foxing or edge wear. The work is sold as seen, with authenticity guaranteed. Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer's responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Japanese prints and guarantee this piece's authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours. 1214