Masao Ido - 安楽寺 (Anraku-ji)

A beautiful print by Masao Ido: 安楽寺 (Anraku-ji) & fabulous example of Masao Ido’s signature “Ido Green” palette. This print captures the shaded stone steps of Anraku-ji Temple (安楽寺) in Kyoto, nestled under a canopy of vibrant summer foliage. Located just off the Philosopher’s Path (哲学の道), this peaceful Zen temple is known for its maple-lined approach and secluded charm. Dappled shadows and textured goma-zuri tones lend the scene a quiet, contemplative mood. 🍃⛩️

• Year & Edition: 1992 · Ed. 42/180 (signed, titled & editioned in pencil).
  
• Medium: Woodblock.
  
• Dimensions: Sheet H: 45.00 cm × W: 33.00 cm · Image H: 38.00 cm × W: 26.00 cm.
  
• Condition: Fantastic - strong colour, well stored, no blemishes. Paper clean & crisp.
  
• Notes: Anraku-ji is a small Jōdo-sect temple in Kyoto’s Sakyo ward, typically closed to the public except during seasonal events. Ido’s composition masterfully captures the quiet elegance of this maple-shrouded approach in early summer.

About the Artist

Masao Ido (1945-2016) was a printmaker known for his Kyoto scenes, brimming with rich greenery, seasonal shades of signature “Ido Green”, and refined goma-zuri textures. Trained in traditional textile dyeing, he turned to woodblock printmaking in the early 1970s, capturing historic townscapes and seasonal views - from Kyoto to Shirakawa-go and the Nakasendō way. Printed with up to 23 colour blocks on handmade Echizen washi, his works are held in major collections including the MFA Boston, U.S. Library of Congress, and the Tokyo & Kyoto National Museums. [ ← View All Works by Masao Ido]