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.

Fine printing from the respected Tokyo publisher Oedo Mokuhansha - These classic designs were produced by the well known Tokyo publisher Oedo Mokuhansha amidst a resurgence of interest in ukiyo-e. Like many of these traditional businesses, the woodblock print craft was passed down through generations, and the Oedo Mokuhansha company was formed by descendents of an Edo era publisher. These are nice prints of the highest quality standards and an excellent choice if you are looking for fine old woodblock reprints.

Plum Garden, Kamata - Terrific view of the plum garden at Kamata in early spring, the trees dotted with buds and blossoms. Visitors stroll about the grounds admiring the flowers or relaxing at the tea stands. A palanquin at right suggests that a traveler has just stopped for a rest, leaving a robe draped over the cushion inside. A lovely design with fine bokashi shading.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Image Size - 14" x 9 1/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight paper remnants on reverse at left edge from original publisher mounting. Slight toning. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.