Hongan-ji Temple at Asakusa in the Eastern Capital c. 1834 - 1837

Hokumyō created this woodblock print called "Hongan-ji Temple at Asakusa in the Eastern Capital," which is now housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. This artwork offers a glimpse into the urban landscape and cultural values of 19th-century Japan. The print skillfully combines architectural details with natural scenery, creating a complex image that invites interpretation. We see the Hongan-ji Temple, Mount Fuji in the background, and workers on a roof - all are elements that speak to the social fabric of the time. The vantage point, looking down from the rooftops, suggests a society in the midst of change, with an emerging middle class and a growing interest in urban life. This piece prompts us to consider the role of art in reflecting and shaping social values. By studying prints like this alongside historical records, we can gain a richer understanding of the social conditions that shaped artistic production in Japan. The meaning of art is contingent on its social and institutional context.