One Hundred Designs by Ogata Kōrin - Sakai Hōitsu

A collection of six fan-shaped woodblock designs by Sakai Hōitsu, documenting the aesthetic principles of the Rinpa school.

This woodblock print originates from the second volume of Kōrin hyakuzu, a collection compiled by the artist Sakai Hōitsu. Hōitsu, a prominent figure of the Edo period, dedicated much of his career to the study and preservation of the work of Ogata Kōrin, the master of the Rinpa school. This publication serves as a catalogue of designs, capturing the aesthetic principles that defined the school.

The page displays six fan-shaped compositions, each demonstrating the economy of line and balance characteristic of the Rinpa style. The subjects range from mythological figures, such as the wind and thunder gods, to botanical studies of lilies and irises. Hōitsu employs a calligraphic approach, using varying line weights to define form without the need for extensive shading or colour. The negative space within each fan shape is managed with precision, allowing the subjects to occupy the frame with clarity.

Technically, the woodblock printing process requires a high degree of control to maintain the fluidity of the original brushwork. The contrast between the stark black ink and the paper creates a visual rhythm across the page. These designs were intended to serve as templates for artisans working in various media, including lacquerware and textiles. By documenting these patterns, Hōitsu ensured the continuity of the Rinpa visual language. The work reflects the Edo period interest in codifying artistic styles through printed media, making high-quality design accessible to a wider audience. The compositions remain clear and legible, demonstrating the effectiveness of the Rinpa approach to decorative art.