Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Category

Library Item

Item no

16714

Title

Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Artist / maker

Unknown

Date

1912

Size

9.0 x 14.0 cm

Type

Photograph; Postcard

Location

Art and Design Library

This Golden Pavilion was built by Yoshimitsu Ashikaga (1358-1408), who was the Shogun, supreme military commander in Kyoto in 1398, during the Muromachi period (1336-1573). The Pavilion consists of three different architectural styles: Shinden zukuri (the residential style of nobles in the 11th century), Shoin-zukuri (warrior house style in the 13th century) and Zen style (the contemporary style of Yoshimitsu, in the 14th century). Only the second and top floors are covered with pure gold leaf and this is believed that this demonstrated Yoshimitu's political and economic power while implying his status was superior to aristocracy. The Golden Pavilion could be considered a triumphal monument for him. Unfortunately, however, it was burned down by an act of arson in 1950 before being rebuilt in 1955 as an identical copy of the original by referencing a survey map in 1906. Repair work carried out in 1985 included the application of 20 kg of pure gold leaf. The postcard was printed between 1907 and 1917, so depicts the original Pavilion. Kinkaku-ji has for many years, been one of the most famous tourist spots in Kyoto and attracts both Japanese and foreign visitors.

Exhibitions with this item

Other views of this item

Related images

Related subjects

Landscape > Water > Loch, lakes and ponds

Places > Asia > Japan

Plants > Trees

Religion > Religious facilities > Buddhist temples