Utagawa (or Ando) Hiroshige I (Japan, 1797 - 1858). Two woodblock prints. Publisher: UOEI. Date: 1856-1858. An elegant pair of woodblock prints by master Utagawa (or Ando) Hiroshige I, set in matching frames. The first woodblock depicts the view of the Tone River from Konodai Hill and is from the series "Meisho Edo Hyakkei" (100 Famous Views of Edo City). The second woodblock is from "Meisho Edo Hyakkei, Gotenyama Hill at Shinagawa" and depicts people crossing the river and going up Gotenyama hill to view the cherry blossoms. Size of images: 13.375" L x 8.5" W (34 cm x 21.6 cm) Size of frames: 18.75" L x 13.75" W (47.6 cm x 34.9 cm)

On the verso of the first woodcut is a label that reads, "Kohnodai, Tonegawa. People standing on a high bluff overhanging the river, and admiring the distant view of Fuji across the Plain of Yedo; Junks sailing on the River Tone. By Hiroshige, 1796-1858." On the verso of the second woodcut is a label that reads, "Shinagawa, Gotenyama. People crossing the almost dry bed of the Shinagawa, now shrunk to a narrow brook, towards a path up steep yellow cliffs toa plateau beyond which are planted cherry trees and a few large pines. By Hiroshige, 1796-1858."

By the 18th century Japanese woodblock 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. These woodblocks were known for the distinct 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.

Provenance: private Evergreen, Colorado, USA collection; ex-private Denver, Colorado, USA, collection; acquired 1960 to 2000

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#163723

Both woodblocks are framed under glass and have not been examined outside the frames. Slight staining but both images are still strong with vivid coloration. Informative labels on versos of each. Normal toning to mattes. Slight nicks/scuffs to frames but otherwise intact, excellent, and wired for suspension.