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 Boundary Marker near Fujikawa, circa 1833 - 1834 - Handsome scene depicting the arrival of the shogun's entourage at Fujikawa on their way to Kyoto. Traditionally, the shogun would send the emperor a gift of horses every year. Here, town officials kneel along the roadway at the boundary marker to welcome the procession, bowing respectfully as three puppies play nearby. Lovely detail in the gently waving grasses at right and the tall trees framing the scene, with fine bokashi shading in background.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Image Size - 8 7/8" x 13 5/8"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Two vertical folds. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases and small marks. Please see photos for details.