Hiroshige’s Great Tokaido - In 1832, Hiroshige first traveled from his home in Edo (present-day Tokyo) to Kyoto along the Tokaido road. The journey was an eye-opening and life-changing experience for him. As an urban man of Edo, he had experienced life mainly in the capital. After the trip, he returned to Edo and immediately began his masterwork woodblock series from the sketches he had made on his journey. Hiroshige's first Tokaido series is also known as the "Great Tokaido," or the "Hoeido Tokaido," after the publisher Hoeido. Hiroshige returned to this favorite subject again and again, creating many additional Tokaido series. Published circa 1833 - 1834, Hiroshige's famous Great Tokaido designs offer an opportunity to be transported back in time to see Japan as it was during the days of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Utsu Mountain at Okabe, circa 1833 - 1834 - Dramatic view of the beautiful and treacherous Utsu pass about four miles from Mariko. Farmers carry firewood on their backs along the embankment of the rushing river as the road curves around into the village. Trees cling precariously to the steep green slopes flanking the road below. Spectacular scenery in this striking subject.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Image Size - 8 3/4" x 13 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Remargined at sides. Slight separation at ends of vertical centerfold, repaired. A few creases and spots. Please see photos for details.