Ueno Toshogu Shrine

Description

In 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 center too. The Ueno Toshogu Shrine itself is not depicted, but instead the Five-Storied Pagoda close to it. The women depicted are standing near the Ueno Toshogu Shrine — the location where Kasamatsu Shiro presumably observed this scene; a number of its imposing 48 bronze lanterns are visible.