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 Suruga Bank of the Oi River near Shimada, circa 1833 - 1834 - Beautiful view showing the shallow river crossing near Shimada. In dry weather, the Oi was actually a stream and was quite easily crossed by the large parties traveling down the Tokaido Road, but it could become a dangerous torrent after heavy rains. Travelers assemble on the sandy banks, some resting alongside their freight and others waiting for porters to take them across. An unusual perspective with wonderful detail.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

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

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Small wormhole, a few small holes, repaired. Slight soiling at edges, a few marks. Please see photos for details.