The artwork entitled “The Pagoda of Zōjōji Temple and Akabane,” created in 1857 by the esteemed artist Hiroshige, is a poignant piece within the Ukiyo-e art movement. Falling under the genre of landscape, it is part of Hiroshige’s illustrious series “One Hundred Famous Views of Edo.”
The artwork masterfully captures the serene view of Zōjōji Temple’s pagoda and the surrounding Akabane area. The composition features striking colors and meticulous details, characteristic of Ukiyo-e art. The pagoda’s structure dominates the right foreground, resplendent in red with elegant black roofing, bordered by lush green foliage. The mid-ground reveals a river lined with greenery, quaint bridges, and scattered human figures. In the background, the scene extends to cityscape silhouettes under a dramatic gradation of the sky, transitioning from a deep blue twilight to the crimson hues of the sunset. This harmonious juxtaposition of natural and architectural elements reflects a tranquil yet vibrant snapshot of historical Edo, encapsulating both its spiritual heritage and everyday life.