Ueno Toshogu Shrine

Description

With 'Ueno Toshogu Shrine,' Kasamatsu depicts a scene popular among woodblock print artists. Such popular choices were often made by the publisher, in this case, Unsodo, because of the high demand from customers for such scenes. Here, the famous site is depicted with blossoming cherry trees, further enhancing its attractiveness. The moment chosen, right after rainfall, is less common but is what makes the composition so effective. It binds all elements of the scene, due to the reflection of the colors of the cherry trees in the water left by the rain, which matches the coat of the woman in the centre too. The Ueno Toshogu Shrine itself is not depicted, but instead the Five-Storied Pagoda close to it. The women depicted, and where Kasamatsu Shiro presumably saw this scene, are standing near the Ueno Toshogu Shrine; a number of its imposing 48 bronze lanterns are visible. A beautiful place to this very day, it is clear that Kasamatsu Shiro managed to capture its timeless beauty perfectly.