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Snow at Ginkaku-ji

Art Appreciation

In this serene scene, a traditional Japanese temple nestles quietly amidst a thick blanket of freshly fallen snow. The structure, with its slightly curved roof layered in white, stands peacefully beside a tranquil pond whose calm waters mirror the gentle snowfall above. Two figures walk along the stone path, their umbrellas adding subtle bursts of color against the muted winter palette. The composition balances the solid architectural form with the organic shapes of snow-laden trees and bushes, inviting the viewer to feel the hush of a winter day steeped in stillness and quiet reflection.

The artist utilizes soft shading and delicate line work, characteristic of classic Japanese woodblock prints, to capture the subtle gradations of light within this snowy landscape. The cool blues and grays meld with stark white, evoking a crisp chill in the air, while the falling snow provides a rhythmic texture that moves the eye gently across the scene. Historically, this print evokes the peaceful beauty of rural Japan, with its quiet reverence for natural cycles, and embodies the ukiyo-e tradition's deep appreciation for seasonal change. The emotional impact is one of calm contemplation, inviting a moment of pause amidst the flurry of falling snowflakes.

Snow at Ginkaku-ji

Hasui Kawase

Category:

Created:

1951

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0

Dimensions:

4032 × 5978 px

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