Cherry Blossom Viewing at Itsukushima and Yoshino

first half 17th century

Not on view

Both of these famous sites, or meisho, are celebrated for their scenic beauty and religious associations, but here sheer enjoyment and celebration of a beautiful spring day among people of all classes on holiday take center stage. The panoramic view of the rolling hills of Yoshino, near the ancient capital of Nara, is depicted on the right. The buildings of Itsukushima Shrine, near Hiroshima, are depicted rising from the water on the left. Each scene is framed in golden clouds, creating a dramatic setting for the many vignettes of dancing, picnicking, and pilgrimage.

The historic Itsukushima Shrine complex earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 and remains a popular pilgrimage and tourist destination.

Artwork Details

厳島吉野花見図屏風
Title: Cherry Blossom Viewing at Itsukushima and Yoshino
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: first half 17th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Pair of six-panel folding screens; ink, color, and gold leaf on paper
Dimensions: Image (each): 60 1/2 in. × 11 ft. 5 1/4 in. (153.6 × 348.6 cm)
Classification: Paintings
Credit Line: Mary Griggs Burke Collection, Gift of the Mary and Jackson Burke Foundation, 2015
Object Number: 2015.300.107.1, .2
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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