The Abe River near Fuchu, circa 1833 - 1834

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 Abe River near Fuchu, circa 1833 - 1834 - Handsome view of travelers crossing the river near Fuchu. At right a beauty rides in a palanquin atop a platform carried by porters who wade through the chest-deep water. Approaching from the opposite direction, two men lead a heavily laden horse while a third helps balance the load atop the animal's back. A large rounded mountain looms on the horizon, the dark form towering above the water. Wonderful detail in the expressive figures and fine shading in the water and sky.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

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

Condition - Good detail. Backed with paper. A few small repairs, a couple creases at corners.