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Utagawa (or Ando) Hiroshige I (Japan, 1797 – 1858), woodblock print from the series: The Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido Road (Tokaido gojusan tsugi no uchi), also known as the Gyosho Tokaido, ca. second half of the 19th century. Published by Hoeido, signed by Hiroshige. A nice woodblock print depicting a scene of woman hailers from inns getting travelers to their inns in Goyu station. An oban yokoe (large size horizontal picture) with backing paper. Size: 8.625″ L x 13.5″ W (21.9 cm x 34.3 cm); 16.625″ L x 22.125″ W (42.2 cm x 56.2 cm) with mat and frame
By the 18th century Japanese wood block techniques evolved and the first polychrome prints or nishiki-e were commissioned for wealthy patrons of the Edo period. This period is known for marvelous woodblock prints of female beauties, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and courtesans of the infamous pleasure districts. In time the repertoire expanded to include romantic landscapes, flora and fauna, and dramatic historical events. This example presents the characteristic birds-eye view, penchant for strong line, and appreciation for brilliant, saturated hues that are hallmarks of this fine Japanese artform. Works by masterful Japanese printmakers such as Hiroshige played a major role in the West’s perception of Japanese visual culture during the late 19th century when Japonism exerted a powerful influence on French Impressionists such as Degas, Manet, and Monet, Post-Impressionists including Van Gogh, even pioneering Art Nouveau artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec.
Condition: According to appraisal documents, this piece was examined out of the frame in August 29, 1988. The appraiser noted creases and inactive worm hole markings which are visible. The print was trimmed and backed with paper, wormholes restored.
Provenance: private Lakewood, Colorado, USA collection, acquired by descent; The owner’s father purchased this piece when he was a captain in the Air Force stationed in Misawa, Japan during the 1960s.
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