The artwork titled “Miidera Otsu,” created by Kiyoshi Saito in 1970, belongs to the Sōsaku hanga art movement and is a landscape genre piece.
The artwork presents an evocative and minimalist depiction of a traditional Japanese scene. Dominated by dark hues and shadowy forms, the composition highlights a pagoda roof, partially obscured by leafless branches adorned with small, vivid red fruits. This juxtaposition of stark black silhouettes against a softly mottled gray sky creates a striking contrast, drawing attention to the delicate interplay of natural and architectural elements. The foreground is delineated by a horizontal structure, anchored by vertical posts, which adds to the overall balance and symmetry of the piece. Saito’s signature, along with his seal, appears in the lower left section, subtly integrated into the composition. The artwork conveys a serene yet dynamic ambiance, characteristic of the Sōsaku hanga style, focusing on personal expression and artistic individuality.
