SAIUN-DO: The Best Choice of Classical Japanese Artists

Published May 2013

Nihon-ga (literally “Japan picture”) is the name given to

a style of painting in which combinations of materials,

mainly minerals and vegetables, are ground into colors

and applied to a surface. Contemporary nihon-ga, which

can be seen in Kyoto’s many museums and art galleries,

tend to focus on animals, landscapes, and botanical

subjects, but in past eras noblemen, women, and Buddha

were popular subjects

Some paints are made from stone or soil, and others were made from vegetables and plants, as well as animal-origin materials such as ground insects and some were even made from shells. Some colors are vivid and bright while others are extremely subtle and delicate – it is hardly

believable that they were all born from nature.

For well over 100 years, Saiun-do has been supplying artists with quality nihon-ga pigments and brushes. Inside of Saiun-do, you can find shelves lined with jars and vials and cases of exotic-looking colored powders. These prized ingredients and how they are mixed can transform white or wooden boards into prized art treasures. Just as important as the pigments, are the brushes that the artists use, and Saiun-do stocks nothing but the very best.

Since its beginning, Saiun-do has been a favorite

destination for many of Japan’s major nihon-ga and sumi-e

(ink paintings) artists. The owners know pretty much

everything, and they have every single ingredient and

accessory that traditional Japanese art requires.

SAIUN-DO

Open: 9:30-18:00; Closed: Wed.; On the south side of Aneyakoji, east of Fuyacho (552 Anedaitocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto)