Clifton Karhu - Nanzenji Shoinan

Modern | Sōsaku Hanga Woodblock Print

Clifton Karhu’s 1983 woodblock evokes autumn at Shoinan - the southern study hall of Nanzen-ji Temple in Kyoto, one of the city’s Five Great Zen Temples founded in 1291 by Emperor Kameyama and head of the Nanzen-ji branch of Rinzai Zen - rendering its stone gate and timber architecture framed by a blaze of red and orange foliage. His crisp outlines and layered color blocks convey both the building’s solidity and the season’s vibrant transition.  🍂🏯

• Year & Edition: 1983 · Ed. of 100 (15/100) (titled, editioned & signed in pencil to plate).
• Medium: Woodblock.
• Dimensions: Sheet approx. H: 37.50 cm × W: 48.00 cm; Image H: 30.50 cm × W: 40.75 cm.
• Condition: Beautiful; vibrant, unblemished colours; paper clean, crisp & intact.
• Notes: Issued in 1983 alongside a Kyoto Print Collection featuring works by Tomikichiro Tokuriki, Clifton Karhu and Masao Ido - each capturing a distinct facet of Kyoto’s seasonal beauty and architectural elegance.

About the Artist

Clifton Karhu (1927-2007) was an American-born woodblock printmaker who spent most of his life in Kyoto. His bold lines and vivid colours captured the character of Kyoto’s machiya townhouses and quiet backstreets, earning him recognition both in Japan and internationally. His works are held in major museum collections around the world. Karhu’s legacy lives on through his family and The Tolman Collection, his long-time representatives. Today, his son Joel Karhu continues the tradition with a striking printmaking practice of his own. [ ← View All Works by Clifton Karhu]