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.

The Famous Teahouse at Mariko, circa 1833 - 1834 - Attractive view of the famous teahouse at Mariko, where travelers could rest, stock up on necessities, or enjoy a cup of tea. Two men sit on a bench having a meal, while a woman with a child on her back beneath her kimono serves them. At left, another man has started back on the road, a straw raincoat and woven hat hung from the pole over his shoulder. The slopes of the Sarugababa Plain stretch into the distance beneath a sky flooded with light. Lovely bokashi shading.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

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

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Remargined. Tape remnant on reverse at top edge. Stitching holes at side, repaired. Slight soiling, a few small spots, slight creasing at edges. Please see photos for details.