Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

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The Kameido Shrine in snow. The best design from a Toto Meisho set of 21 prints published by Kikakudo ( Sanoki ) c. 1832-5 and then extended to 55 in c. 1839-42. The view shows the famous Drum Bridge, koi ponds and wisteria. The main shrine to the memory of Sugawara no Michizane ( Tenjin ), the father of Japanese learning, and built in 1662.

Fine impression. Probably the first edition with the cloak ( right figure ) and trousers ( left figure ) double printed, red over blue; crisp seal and red publisher’s seal in right margin ( later editions having the black seal of Sanoki ). These later editions have a black sky and a block defect appears at the edge of the pond centre left. Slight centre fold and shaved top right border, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

Status: Sold