Clifton Karhu - Gion Matsuri Carts
Title: Gion Matsuri Carts. Ed.71/100.
Artist: Clifton Karhu (1927-2007).
Signed & Dated: Titled, editioned, & signed in pencil to plate. Dated 1978.
Medium: Woodblock Print.
Size: Paper Approx: H: 45.25cm x W: 44.50cm. (Image Size: H: 35.25cm x W: 35.25cm).
Condition: Please refer to photos / Contact for any further questions/photos/& condition report.
Notes: A fabulous print by Clifton Karhu titled Gion Matsuri Carts, depicting Kyoto’s historic summer festival. The Gion Matsuri (祇園祭) traces its origins to 869 CE, when it was first held as a purification ritual to appease the gods during an epidemic. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a month-long celebration centered around the yamaboko junko (山鉾巡行) parade, where towering floats - crafted with exquisite textiles, carvings, and paintings - grace the streets. Karhu’s bold lines and vivid colours capture the energy of the festival, with crowds and lantern-lit carts illuminated by a full moon. Created in 1978, this piece is particularly vibrant & atmospheric as Karhu reflects his deep admiration for Kyoto’s cultural heritage, blending tradition with his signature modern style.
Title: Gion Matsuri Carts. Ed.71/100.
Artist: Clifton Karhu (1927-2007).
Signed & Dated: Titled, editioned, & signed in pencil to plate. Dated 1978.
Medium: Woodblock Print.
Size: Paper Approx: H: 45.25cm x W: 44.50cm. (Image Size: H: 35.25cm x W: 35.25cm).
Condition: Please refer to photos / Contact for any further questions/photos/& condition report.
Notes: A fabulous print by Clifton Karhu titled Gion Matsuri Carts, depicting Kyoto’s historic summer festival. The Gion Matsuri (祇園祭) traces its origins to 869 CE, when it was first held as a purification ritual to appease the gods during an epidemic. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a month-long celebration centered around the yamaboko junko (山鉾巡行) parade, where towering floats - crafted with exquisite textiles, carvings, and paintings - grace the streets. Karhu’s bold lines and vivid colours capture the energy of the festival, with crowds and lantern-lit carts illuminated by a full moon. Created in 1978, this piece is particularly vibrant & atmospheric as Karhu reflects his deep admiration for Kyoto’s cultural heritage, blending tradition with his signature modern style.
Title: Gion Matsuri Carts. Ed.71/100.
Artist: Clifton Karhu (1927-2007).
Signed & Dated: Titled, editioned, & signed in pencil to plate. Dated 1978.
Medium: Woodblock Print.
Size: Paper Approx: H: 45.25cm x W: 44.50cm. (Image Size: H: 35.25cm x W: 35.25cm).
Condition: Please refer to photos / Contact for any further questions/photos/& condition report.
Notes: A fabulous print by Clifton Karhu titled Gion Matsuri Carts, depicting Kyoto’s historic summer festival. The Gion Matsuri (祇園祭) traces its origins to 869 CE, when it was first held as a purification ritual to appease the gods during an epidemic. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a month-long celebration centered around the yamaboko junko (山鉾巡行) parade, where towering floats - crafted with exquisite textiles, carvings, and paintings - grace the streets. Karhu’s bold lines and vivid colours capture the energy of the festival, with crowds and lantern-lit carts illuminated by a full moon. Created in 1978, this piece is particularly vibrant & atmospheric as Karhu reflects his deep admiration for Kyoto’s cultural heritage, blending tradition with his signature modern style.
