Utagawa HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

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Okabe, Utsu no yama, “Okabe, Utsu Mountain.” Number 21 from the famous Tokaido gojusan tsugi no uchi, “The Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido.” Published by Hoeido, c. 1833-4. Hiroshige travelled the length of the Tokaido as part of an official delegation in 1832 making sketches along the way. On his return he started work on the set eventually producing 55 prints. The first of the designs were published jointly by Hoeido and Senkakudo, but then Hoeido took over the production. Utsunoya Pass is just before Okabe. The pass is the scene of a Kabuki play by Mokuami Kawatake (1816-1893) where Jubei Itamiya kills and robs the blind Bun’ya. This is the rare first edition.

Fine impression. Slight fading of seals, slight centre fold and minimal soil to left edge, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

Status: Sold