Mannen Bridge, Fukagawa

by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Current Status

Mannen Bridge, Fukagawa by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Original Hiroshige (1797 - 1858) Japanese Woodblock Print
Mannen Bridge, Fukagawa

Series; One Hundred Famous Views of Edo

One Hundred Famous Views of Edo - In 1856, Hiroshige began designing what was to be his last great series and a masterpiece, "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo." The series contains 118 vertical format woodblocks of classic Hiroshige landscapes. From spring cherry blossoms to summer fireworks, from quiet scenes along the river to lively festival celebrations, Hiroshige captures life in old Edo in dramatic and interesting ways. Hiroshige employed an inventive compositional technique in many of the prints, using large foreground elements to frame a distant view in the background, such as the image of Kinryuzan Temple seen through the doorway of the famous Thunder Gate. Beautifully printed with fine bokashi shading, "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo" retains its popularity today as one of Hiroshige's great masterworks, and includes some of his most memorable images.

Mannen Bridge, Fukagawa - Striking composition of a turtle dangling from the handle of a bucket on the Mannen Bridge, with a view of the water and Mt. Fuji beyond. In Edo, vendors sold small turtles, carp, and eel near bridges for customers to purchase and release, a practice thought to ensure good karma. The charming turtle seems peaceful as it looks out over the boats on the river, with the handle of the bucket on the left and the bridge railings framing the vista and serving to contrast the confining frontal space with the expansive landscape beyond. A wonderful, captivating design by Hiroshige.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Image Size - 13 1/4" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Stitching holes in right margin from previous folio binding, repaired. Soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Mannen Bridge, Fukagawa by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)
Mannen Bridge, Fukagawa by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

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