Detail
| Cultural Resources Category | Paintings |
|---|---|
| Cultural Properties Category | National Designation (Special Monuments) Tangible Cultural Properties (Paintings) |
| Title | Handpainted Illustrated Biography of Toshogu Shrine by Tan'yu |
| Designation Date | 1950/08/29 |
| Cities / Towns | Nikko |
| Owner / Manager | Nikko Toshogu Shrine |
| Description | This is a biography spanning the life of Tokugawa Ieyasu, from his birth to his burial in Nikko. It was created by Tokugawa Iemitsu out of reverence and admiration for his grandfather, Ieyasu. The draft was prepared by Monk Tenkai and written by Sonjun Hosshinno of Shoren-in Temple, finalized selection in November 1639 (Kan'ei 16), and completed by April of the following year, then dedicated to the shrine. Tan'yū poured his heart and soul into this work, using the Yamato-e painting method on a golden background, depicting individuals and landscapes. It is inferred from the similarities in form and content that scrolls like "Origin of Shakado", "Origin of Taima-ji", and "Heike Monogatari Emaki" were referenced. The calligraphy accompanying the illustrations was done by Emperor Go-Mizunoo and other members of the imperial family. The first volume covers topics such as Ieyasu's aspirations, divine dreams, birth, Inui Pond, and the Battle of Komaki. The second volume includes the Battle of Sekigahara, visits to shrines, the radiance of Suruga, the Osaka Campaign, and the bestowal of titles. The third volume encompasses Ieyasu's passing, Mount Kunozan, his journey to Nikko, the Sugabashi Bridge dedication on Mount Kanzeon, and the Buddhist monk Katsudo. The fourth volume depicts cranes, festivals, religious ceremonies, Koreans, and the inner sanctum. The fifth volume revolves around Chuzen-ji Temple and the Kegon no taki Falls. The scrolls are made of high-quality paper with woven patterns of birds, and the cover is adorned with gold brocade. The title "Toshogu Shrine Engi" is inscribed in ink on the cover, and it is also written as "Tosho Daigongen Engi" in the title. The epilogue is by Priest Tenkai. |
| Copyright | 著作権あり |
