Utagawa HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

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Kisoji no Yamagawa, “Mountain River on the Kiso Road.” One of Hiroshige’s most iconic images: Snow from an untitled set of three Setsugekka (“Snow, Moon, Flowers”) triptychs. The other two being Moon at Kanazawa and Whirlpools at Awa. The Setsugekka theme was taken from a poem by Tang dynasty poet Bai Juyi (Haku Rakuten). It’s a metonym for beautiful views, etc. This part of the Kiso Road was particularly treacherous but it’s not possible to identify the exact location and Hiroshige most likely used a certain amount of artist’s license. Published by Okasawaya Taheiji, 1857, a year before his death.

Fine impression and colour. Centre sheet lightly backed and slightly trimmed, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige hitsu with Bokurin Shokoku seal.

Status: Sold