Toyokuni IV Utagawa, Fujieda, Painting and Calligraphy from the 53 Stations of the Tokaido

£280
SKU
CMWA435
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Artist: Toyokuni IV Utagawa (1823-1880)
Title: Fujieda - Suruga Province
Series title: Painting and Calligraphy from the 53 Stations of the Tokaido
Publisher: Sawamuraya
Date: 1872
Size: 22.6 x 35.3 cm

Original Japanese woodblock print.

toyokuni IV utagawa, Painting and Calligraphy from the 53 Stations of the Tokaido
toyokuni IV utagawa, Painting and Calligraphy from the 53 Stations of the Tokaido toyokuni IV utagawa, Painting and Calligraphy from the 53 Stations of the Tokaido

Tokaido was the most important travel route between the city of Edo and the capital Kyoto. Along this road were numerous stations or posts that offered refreshments and lodging for travellers. Tokaido was a favourite subject in woodblock prints produced in the Edo period and frequently associated with events or characters, as is also the case in this series. The main title is within the red cartouche to the right, and below that in the lower right corner a green pillar-shaped cartouche identifies the station name and prefecture with an explanation of the main image. The telegraph pole along the right margin seems to announce the beginning of the new Meiji era, with new technologies being adapted at a fast pace throughout the country.

Toyokuni IV Utagawa (Kunisada II)


Kunisada II was the pupil of prolific ukiyo-e artist Toyokuni III (Kunisada I) and went on to become head of the Utagawa school. He produced over 40 series, mainly depicting actors. He also published beauty, shunga and literature inspired prints, working in the style of his master but never quite achieving the same level of success. While illustrating over 200 books, his most celebrated actor series was "The Tale of the Eight Dog Heroes". However, his popularity began to wain in the Meiji period and ceased making prints in 1874.
More Information
Print FormatOban (Vertical)
ArtistToyokuni IV Utagawa (Kunisada II)
SubjectSamurai & Male
Dimensions22.6 x 35.3 cm
Condition ReportTrimmed, red pigment transfer.
FoldersIn Store, EH
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