status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )

The one hundred thousand tsubo [ an area of measure ] plain, Suzaki, Fukagawa, from Meisho Edo hyakkei, the “One Hundred Views of Edo” published by Uoei between 1856 and 1858 ( this being 1857 ). An eagle hovers over the snowy coastal plain at Suzaki with Mount Tsukuba and the Chiba mountains in the distance. This and the other similar designs from the set with large foreground objects were of particular interest to the Post Impressionists, and indeed, this design was considered by many collectors at the turn of the 19th century to be the finest print from the set. It is still judged to be one of the major designs.

Very good impression. Fine colour. Imperceptible centre fold, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )

An extremely rare print with title: Genji monogatari Suma no maki, “The Suma Chapter from the Tale of Genji. “ Published by Maruya Seijiro, c 1832-4. Shows the salt water gatherers Matsukaze “Pine Wind”and Murasame “Drops of Rain” at Suma Beach. In the summer house is the courtier Yukihira who was banished to this lonely place in Settsu. This is the first edition: republished without clouds and title slip at right. ( See Tsuneo Tamba, The Art of Hiroshige, 1965, no. 131, p. 62. )

Good impression; very good colour. Centre fold. Signed Hiroshige ga.

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )

A vertical diptych showing a deep gorge covered in snow and the Fuji River which flowed to the left of Mount Fuji and eventually entered Suruga Bay. One of Hiroshige’s major designs and rare ( Strange: “One of the great landscapes of the nineteenth century.” ) Published by Sanoya Kihei, c 1840-2. It is not generally known that there are two distinct states of this print with a different block used for the sky and the two peaks top left with different outlines: See here and J. Hillier, Gale Catalogue of Japanese Paintings and Prints, Routledge, 1970, no. 280 and ( alternative ): Matthi Forrer, Hiroshige, Prestel, 1997, ( Baur collection, Geneva ), no. 118. Both appear to be similar impressions.

Very good impression, colour and condition. Full size. Signed Hiroshige hitsu. 

status: available

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )

Fujikawa from the so-called “Upright Tokaido.” One of the two snow scenes from the set. Shows travelers coming and going at the edge of the village. Published by Tsutaya, Hare 7, 1855.

Very good impression with woodgrain evident in the sky. Very good condition with full margins. Signed Hiroshige ga.


 

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )

Awa no naruto no fuha, “ Rough Seas at the Whirlpools of Awa.” The best design from the Famous Places in the Sixty-Odd Provinces published by Koshimuraya Heisuke, 1853 – 6 ( this design Hare 9 [ 1855 ] ). The area of water between Awa Province on the Island of Shikoku and the smaller island of Awaji where the waters of the Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet was notorious for its whirlpools. ( See the triptych design of same subject published two years later on this website. ) A famous design and justly popular. An unidentified collector’s seal bottom left corner ( F.E. or T.E. ? ).

Extremely good, early impression with good woodgrain showing on rocks and sky. The earliest impression I have seen was the Walter Amstutz copy ( ex Popper ), lot 207, Sothebys, 1991. Examination of that example shows that the narrow area of sea immediately below the distant hills differs and was obviously recut on all but this earliest state. Likewise, later impressions appear to have a different block for sky as they do not show the distinctive woodgrain. Margins a little narrow on two sides, but otherwise very good condition and colour. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI ( 1797-1861 )

Stations Hodogaya, Totsuka, Fujisawa and Hiratsuka from a set of twelve prints, Tokaido gojusan eki, shishuku meisho, "Famous Views of the Fifty-three Stations on the Tokaido, Four at a Time." This is the outstanding design from an otherwise boring set, only one other composition - sailing boats between Maisaka and Arai - having any merit. This is the actual impression illustrated in Heroes and Ghosts, Robert Schaap, 1998, no. 212, p. 192 where they propose three variant editions ( this being the second ). Provenance: ex W B Robinson collection.

Very good impression, colour and condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi shuku zu.

status: sold

Ichiyusai HIROSHIGE II ( 1829-1869 )

 A view of a smoking Mt Asama, Shinano Province, from Shokoku meisho hyakkei. The "One Hundred Views of Famous Places in the Provinces." The volcano erupted spectacularly in 1783 and emitted rocks in 1894 and 1900. Published by Uoei, Sheep 9 ( 1859 ).

Superb impression of the first edition with extensive mica and beautiful bokashi. Perfect colour. Light album backing, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797-1858 )

Saruwakacho yoru no kei, "Night View of Saruwaka ( Monkey ) Theatre Street " from The Hundred Views of Edo published Dragon 9, 1856, by Uoya Eikichi. One of the best prints from the set and a striking design with its deep perspective and shadows. The avenue was where Edo's kabuki and puppet theatres were rebuilt after a fire in 1841. There were also tea-houses and restaurants. Various editions exist of this print and the easiest way of identifying them is by the block used for the evening sky: The earliest state has a distinctive woodgrain ( see this website also Kobijutsu, Special Issue, Hiroshige, March 1983, no. 414 ). The second state ( as here ) also has a distinctive, but different, woodgrain pattern, while the third and later states lack any prominent woodgrain in the sky ( see Hiroshige, Matthi Forrer, 1997, no. 98 ). The moon is also placed differently on first and subsequent editions together with other small changes in the lanterns and lights.

Fine, early edition with nice bokashi against the moon. Very good colour and condition. This state has sumi graded at the end of the street and emphasised shadows which gives a different feel from the first state. One's preference is subjective. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797-1858 )

Shimabara deguchi no yanagi, "The Willow at the Gate of Shimabara" from the set of ten prints: Kyoto meisho no uchi, "Famous Places of Kyoto." Published c 1834 by Eisendo. Shows the entrance to the walled brothel district of Kyoto with a night reveller being helped home. A courtesan with her attendants on the right. This is the rare first edition from this fine set with Eisendo's blue seal and a blue kiwame seal in right margin. The second has just the kiwame seal, and the third has no seals. 

Fine impression. Imperceptible centre fold. Fine colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai  HIROSHIGE ( 1797-1858 )

Oyama, Roben no taki from Sankai mitate sumo, "Mountains and Sea Contending Like Wrestlers." The set of twenty prints - ten of mountains and ten of harbours - has the title in an umpire's fan used for wrestling matches. The Roben Waterfall was very popular with pilgrims visiting the shrine in summer. How popular can be judged by looking at Kuniyoshi's triptych of this subject ( see Kuniyoshi, Juzo Suzuki, 1992, plate 12 ). This design is the second best, after the snow scene, from the set. The first edition with variegated cartouche. Published Horse 7 and 8, 1858 by Yamadaya.

Fine impression and colour. Imperceptible centre fold, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797-1858 )

Ohashi, Atake no yudachi, " Ohashi, Sudden Shower at Atake" from Edo hyakkei, "One Hundred Views of Edo." A lovely example of this design which, apart from the Great Wave, is probably the best known Japanese print, and because of this, examples come onto the market often heavily revamped and/or restored and/or very late editions. It was copied by Van Gogh in oils, 1888 ( see Catalogue of the Van Gogh Museum's collection of Japanese prints, no. 91, p. 99 ). Published Snake Year ( Ansei IV/9 ), October 1857 by Uoya Eikichi. Provenance: Sold by me in 1980.

Not first edition but a careful early impression, with the pillars of the bridge overprinted with light yellow to contrast with the grey of the struts. Numerous states exist of this design and they are well documented. ( Interestingly, the supposed earliest state [ with the silhouettes of two boats on far shore ] has an unattractive colour and gradation scheme - reminiscent of the later editions. This was quickly corrected. ) Fine colour. Slight discolouration in right margin, otherwise fine condition; full size. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Atago shita Yabukoji, “Bamboo Lane below Atago Hill” from Meisho Edo hyakkei, the “One Hundred Views of Edo” published by Uoei between 1856 and 1858 ( this being 1857 ). A well known snow scene from the set.

Very good impression and condition. Fine colour. Totally untrimmed margins. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

An excessively rare triptych: Onkyoku sekai awase, “Matching the World and Music,” showing 13 dramatic illustrations of the Joruri world ( these being the famous narrated stories ). All episodes are shown against a snowy backdrop. Published 1849-50 by Ibasen.

Fine impression and colour. Some nice oxidation at bottom and very minor soil. Very good condition. Signed Hiroshige giga, “drawn to amuse.”

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Numazu from the Upright Tokaido, Gojusan tsugi meisho zue. Published by Tsutaya, 1855. The old adage that familiarity breeds contempt certainly applies to this set, which was reprinted many times. Early printings, as here, enable us to appreciate this underrated set. One of the two snow scenes from the set showing figures crossing one of two trestle bridges.

Very good to fine impression. The red cartouches double printed ( only seen on early impressions ). Fine colour. Light album backing and trimmed close at bottom right but leaving black border, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiryusai Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Maisaka from the Upright Tokaido, Gojusan tsugi meisho zue. Published by Tsutaya, 1855. The old adage that familiarity breeds contempt certainly applies to this set, which was reprinted many times. Early printings, as here, enable us to appreciate this underrated set. Shows the coastline and boats. This area was famous for eel-breeding.

 Very good to fine impression. The red cartouches double printed ( only seen on early impressions ). Fine colour. Light album backing, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiryusai Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Hamamatsu from the Upright Tokaido, Gojusan tsugi meisho zue. Published by Tsutaya, 1855. The old adage that familiarity breeds contempt certainly applies to this set, which was reprinted many times. Early printings, as here, enable us to appreciate this underrated set. Shows the famous old pine tree being viewed by a daimyo and attendants.

Very good to fine impression. The red cartouches double printed ( only seen on early impressions ). A light brown block is overprinted on the pines which is omitted on later editions. Fine colour. Light album backing, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiryusai Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Fukuroi from the Upright Tokaido, Gojusan tsugi meisho zue. Published by Tsutaya, 1855. The old adage that familiarity breeds contempt certainly applies to this set, which was reprinted many times. Early printings, as here, enable us to appreciate this underrated set. Shows peasants in rice fields and children flying kites.

Very good to fine impression. The red cartouches double printed ( only seen on early impressions ). Fine colour. Light album backing, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiryusai Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Kanaya from the Upright Tokaido, Gojusan tsugi meisho zue. Published by Tsutaya, 1855. The old adage that familiarity breeds contempt certainly applies to this set, which was reprinted many times. Early printings, as here, enable us to appreciate this underrated set. Travellers on a steep slope leading down to the ford on the Oi River, Fuji in the distance.

Very good to fine impression. The red cartouches double printed ( only seen on early impressions ). Fine colour. Light album backing, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiryusai Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Mariko from the Upright Tokaido, Gojusan tsugi meisho zue. Published by Tsutaya, 1855. The old adage that familiarity breeds contempt certainly applies to this set, which was reprinted many times. Early printings, as here, enable us to appreciate this underrated set. Shows travellers and inns serving the famous tororojiru soup. Interestingly the left shop also sells colour prints which is seldom depicted in ukiyoe.

Very good to fine impression. The red cartouches double printed ( only seen on early impressions ). Fine colour. Light album backing and a small paper fibre on reverse side, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiryusai Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Fuchu from the Upright Tokaido, Gojusan tsugi meisho zue. Published by Tsutaya, 1855. The old adage that familiarity breeds contempt certainly applies to this set, which was reprinted many times. Early printings, as here, enable us to appreciate this underrated set. Shows the entrance to the Yoshiwara at night, the moon above. Fuchu was the old capital of Suruga Province.

Very good to fine impression. The red cartouches double printed ( only seen on early impressions ). Fine colour. Light album backing, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiryusai Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Eijiri from the Upright Tokaido, Gojusan tsugi meisho zue. Published by Tsutaya, 1855. The old adage that familiarity breeds contempt certainly applies to this set, which was reprinted many times. Early printings, as here, enable us to appreciate this underrated set. Shows fishing nets and boats on the river. Shizuoka tea was one of the major exports.

Very good to fine impression. The red cartouches double printed ( only seen on early impressions ). Fine colour. Light album backing, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiryusai Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Hara from the Upright Tokaido, Gojusan tsugi meisho zue. Published by Tsutaya, 1855. The old adage that familiarity breeds contempt certainly applies to this set, which was reprinted many times. Early printings, as here, enable us to appreciate this underrated set. Shows a large Fuji extending into the top margin ( as on the Hoeido Tokaido ). The area before Fuji was swampland and the farmers had to visit their fields in boats.

Very good to fine impression. The red cartouches double printed ( only seen on early impressions ). Fine colour. Light album backing, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiryusai Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1832–1892 ) and Yamazaki TOSHINOBU (1857-1886)

Takanawa tetsudo no zu, “A Picture of the Takanawa Railway.” The train is shown on an embankment in Shinagawa Bay ( approx. 4.5 miles from Nihonbashi ). There was government opposition at the time to building the railway on the shore, hence the reclaimed land that forms the embankment. In fact the train is copied from an engraving in the Illustrated London News published in 1855 where it is described as being owned by the Panama railway for transporting letters and money. The inscription on the side of the second carriage on the engraving reads: U.S. MAIL’S which becomes: US MAUS on the triptych. Published by Maruya Jinpachi 1871. This is the first edition: It was reissued ( probably many times ) with crude colouring and the inscription in far left cartouche removed.

Fine impression and colour. Very good condition. Completely untrimmed. Signed Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi zu, johitsu ( “with the help of” ) Toshinobu.

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

An important preliminary sketch ( cartoon ) for a painting ( the finished version of which exists in Japan ). Shows a Daimyo’s procession through a pine grove at Totsuka on the Tokaido with Mount Fuji behind the trees. Totsuka – today part of Yokohama – was the point at which travellers spent their first night, presuming that they had made an early start in Edo. Extensive pentimenti. Sumi on paper. Image size: 41.1 x 52.7 cms; 16.5 x 20.75 inches. Mounted as a scroll with box. Good condition. Spurious signature copied from the finished version, but a genuine painting.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

An important original painting by Hiroshige showing the lighthouse at Tempozan ( Osaka ) and the Yodo River. Ships’ masts in the foreground. Tempozan ( Mount Tempo, Osaka – named after the era name ) was constructed in 1832 to prevent silting of the river mouth. Hiroshige paintings are now rare. Possibly originally one of a set from a makemono. Sumi and colour on paper. Image size: 32.4 x 51.4 cms; 12.75 x 20.25 inches. Mounted as a scroll with box.. Good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga with Ichiryusai seal.

status: sold

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

A snow scene entitled Toto sukiyagashi, “The Sukiya Bank of the Moat of Edo Castle in the Eastern Capital” from the set Fuji sanjurokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” One of the six best designs from the set. Published by Tsutaya Kichizo, 1858.

Very good impression, colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

The pine beach at Miho in Suruga Province, Suruga Miho no matsubara from the set Fuji sanjurokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” One of the six best designs from the set. Published by Tsutaya Kichizo, 1858.

Very good impression, colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

A giant wave thrown up by the sea at Satta. Suruga Satta kaijo, “ Waves off the Satta Pass in Suruga Province” from the set Fuji sanjurokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” The finest design from the set. The spume of a wave was thought to transmogrify into chidori ( a species of plover ) which can be seen here flying above the sea. Published by Tsutaya Kichizo, 1858.

Very good impression, colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Bakuro-cho Hatsune no baba, “The Hatsune Riding Grounds at Bakuro-cho.” In the foreground are bolts of drying cloth with a fire watch-tower in the near distance. From Edo hyakkei, the “One Hundred Views of Edo” published by Uoei between 1856 and 1858 ( this being 1857 ).

Very fine impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Minor creases in left margin, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Toyohara KUNICHIKA (1835-1900)

Aoi, Chapter 9, from Genji goju-shi jo, a parody series of the tale of Genji ( ie the 54 Chapters of Genji Monogatari, a 10^th century romance by Murasaki-Shikibu. ) Shows ama, female divers, collecting awabi, “abalone”, on the coast of Ise. This is the best design from the set and was a popular subject with ukiyo-e artists as the women were considered quite risqué for obvious reasons. Published by Takekawa Seikichi, Meiji 17 ( 1884 ).

Fine impression, colour and condition. Signed Toyohara Kunichika fude.

status: sold

Keisai EISEN (1790-1848)

Itahana from the Sixty-nine Stations of the Kisikaido. The set was started by Eisen and published by Hoeido in 1835, but in 1837 Hiroshige took over and completed the series with the publisher Iseiri ( Kinjudo ). Shows the entrance to the village with well-wrapped travelers trudging through the snow along a road edged with pines. The sun has set on the horizon. The rare first edition: Other designs from the set are signed on the first edition, but this is the exception. In later editions the red seal, top left, changes; the water in the stream, left, is graded above, not below; the hand-stamped kiwame/Take seal in left margin is left off, and the blue printed on the first figure’s legs and the legs of the two small figures on the bridge is lacking. ( See Ukiyoe Taikei, vol.15, no.15 for an example of the later edition. )

Very fine impression and colour. Two small thin areas right margin and several backed pin holes near border, otherwise fine condition. Unsigned.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

Ommayagashi yori Ryogoku-bashi no sekiyo wo miru, “Viewing Sunset over Ryogoku Bridge from the Ommaya Embankment [ Edo ].” From Hokusai’s most famous series: Fugaku sanju-rokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” The set of 46 prints published by Eijudo, c. 1830 – 32. This was one of a number of ferry crossings between the Sumida bridges. A beautiful design from the set that does not come onto the market as often as others.

Fine impression and colour ( blue outline ). Very full size on three sides. Slightly unevenly trimmed following the block edge on the right. Minor soil and imperceptible centre fold. Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu hitsu.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

Koishikawa yuki no ashita, “Snowy Morning at Koishikawa” from Hokusai’s most famous series: Fugaku sanju-rokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” The set of 46 prints published by Eijudo, c. 1830 – 32. This area is now near central Tokyo and has some hills which give views of Mount Fuji ( when conditions allow ). This is the only snow scene from the set. Ex collection H. de Winiwater, seal bottom right.

Very good impression ( blue outline ). Very good colour. Small thin area, otherwise very good condition. Full size. Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu hitsu.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

Totomi sanchu, “In the Mountains of Totomi Province.” The location was in what is now the western part of Shizuoka Prefecture and shows a poor logging family, two of whom are sawing planks from a huge log supported by wood trestles. To the left another man is sharpening a saw. Smoke curles up from a fire and clouds encircle Fuji. One of the finest designs from Hokusai’s most famous series: Fugaku sanju-rokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” The set of 46 prints published by Eijudo c. 1830-32. An exceptional example of this design, printed, apart from light brown bokashi to the edge of the smoke cloud, in aizuri, Prussian blue ( Japanese: berorin, ie “Berlin” blue, from the place of manufacture ). The publisher of the set Eijudo advertised the set as using aizuri technique, to cater for the public’s craving for anything new ( it was only widely imported from c. 1829 ), and some designs from the set are predominantly blue while other prints, as here, are mainly aizuri in early editions.

Very fine impression with strong wood grain evident. Probably first edition. The publisher’s seal and censor seal blind-printed bottom left corner, possibly so the red did not interfere with the colour scheme. Other, later editions have the seals in red. Still later the seals are removed, the outline is printed in black – not blue, and the colour scheme is changed dramatically. Fine colour. Slight lateral trimming, mainly on right, otherwise fine condition. Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu hitsu.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Mountains and Rivers on the Kiso Road, Kisoji no yamakawa. A majestic snow scene showing a rugged part of the Kisokaido Road. One of the oldest in Japan, becoming less important after the Tokaido Road was constructed, which was faster and easier. Although no series title this is from a trinity of designs depicting Snow ( as here ), Moon and Flowers. These were the last three great prints Hiroshige designed. All are rare, especially Snow and Moon. Published 1857 by Okasawaya Taheiji.

Fine impression and colour. Slight yellowing of paper, otherwise fine condition. Completely untrimmed, matching sheets with extra paper all round. These prints are extremely difficult to find without trimming, often well into the cartouche. Signed Hiroshige hitsu.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858) 

Fujikawa from the so-called “Upright Tokaido.” One of the two snow scenes from the set. Published by Tsutaya Hare 7, 1855.

Very good impression and colour. ( Later editions have a dark sky. ) Margins trimmed somewhat, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

 A design that hardly needs cataloguing as it is one of Hiroshige’s most famous. Shono – Sudden Rain, Shono-hakuu from The Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido Road, published by Hoeido, c. 1831-4. Some travellers are caught in a downpour near the town of Shono in Ise Province. Various changes were tried by the printers over a period of time: Altering the pigments and bokashi to achieve different atmospheric effects. This impression tallies mostly with 17(b) in Hiroshige, The Ukiyo-e Society of America, 1983 which gives states (a) to (e).

Good to very good impression and colour. Trimmed close but retaining black border. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

The Kinuta ( or Toi ) River in Settsu Province from the vertical Shokoku Mu Tama-gawa, the “Six Tama [ Crystal ] Rivers of Various Provinces.” ( So-called because these streams were noted for the purity of their water. ) Published by Marukyo, 11/1857. Shows two girls fulling cloth beneath a full moon. ( Toi is also the word for beating cloth. ) See the Shunman on this website in Beauties for another print of the same subject. The best design from the set and a beautiful composition.

Fine impression and colour. Some minimal soil in margins, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Kochoro KUNISADA (1786 – 1865)

The Eitai Bridge ( Eitaibashi ) from a second series of five prints with title: Komo abura-e fu, “Drawings in the Red Hair [ Dutch ] Oil Painting Style.”  Shows beauties in a pleasure boat in the foreground with a view along the Sumida of Eitai Bridge and Tsukuda Island. A mass of masts is shown in the harbour. ( At this time – c. 1825 – pure spring water and mountain streams supplied the canals and rivers with drinking water and the mouth of the Sumida was abundant with sea and fresh water fish. A distinct difference from today. ) This extremely rare set mimics Dutch leather with the borders and European writing with horizontal calligraphy. Published c. 1825 by Kinkodo.

Very good impression with extremely well retained colour. Minor soil, otherwise very good condition. Signed Konomi ni makase Kunisada egaku, “Drawn by request by Kunisada.”

status: available

Ichiyusai HIROSHIGE II (1829 – 1869)

Heavy rain and wind at Tatsuguchi in Bizen Province from Shokoku meisho hyakkei, the “One Hundred Views of Famous Places in the Provinces.” Published by Uoei, Monkey 2 ( 1860 ).

Very good impression, colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797 – 1858)

Shinmachi kukencho from Naniwa [ Osaka ] meisho zu, “Famous Views of Naniwa.” Shows parading courtesans in the licensed quarter. A set of ten prints published 1834 by Eisendo. Rare.

Fine impression. Very good colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga ( on the patterned border which is often trimmed off on this design ).

status: sold

Aoigaoka HOKKEI (1780 – 1850)

A large ( 17.25 x 24.25 inches; 44 x 62 cms. ) aerial view of the Asakusa Kinryu Shrine in the Eastern Capital, Toto Kinryuzan, Asakusa dera no zu. Published c.1830s by Izumiya Ichibei and Mamura Hanbei and blocks cut by Akibara Namijiro. At the top right a red seal ( of a collector or shop ) Ei-o do. There appears to be another edition of this view with another publisher, lacking block cutter’s name and without the setting sun top right. Rare: For obvious reasons these large views did not survive in any quantity.

Very good impression and colour. Faint fold marks with some expert restoration. Lightly laid onto Japanese paper. Signed Aoigaoka Hokkei sha.

status: sold

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1797 – 1861)

Shin Yoshiwara from the set of ten prints: Toto meisho, “Famous Views of the Eastern Capital.” Shows night revellers beneath a moon with an enormous halo. A much admired print with a westernised chiaroscuro effect. Excessively rare. Published by Kagaya Kichibei, c 1834.

Fine impression. Extremely well retained colour. Restored top edge running from the centre towards right corner and top left corner. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai HIROSHIGE (1797 – 1858)

A view over the Naruto Strait of the whirlpools at Awa, Awa no naruto no fukei. Although no series title this is from a trinity of triptychs depicting Snow, Moon and Flowers, this being the last ( because the eddies and whirls were reminiscent of flowers [ nami no hana, "flowers of the waves" ] ). These were the last three great prints Hiroshige designed. All are rare, especially Snow and Moon. Published 1857 by Okasawaya Taheiji. 

Very good impression. It is claimed that the first printings have a sliver of land on the far right horizon which is removed on later editions. However, there seems to be no discernable difference in quality between that state and very good impressions without. So, if true, this must have happened early on. Almost all impressions are without. Indeed, late impressions of this set of three triptychs are not known. Very good colour. Expertly repaired wormhole on centre sheet. Virtually untrimmed: These prints are extremely difficult to find without trimming, often well into the title cartouche. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Station 13, Numazu, hikure, “Yellow Dusk” from the Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido. The set published by Hoeido and Senkakudo in 1834. One of the finest designs from the set showing travellers about to enter the village of Numazu beneath the huge orb of the moon. On each side are dark pines, and this station is famous for its forest which stretches along the seashore. One of the travellers is carrying a red tengu mask on his back, the mark of a pilgrim to the Shinto Shrine of Kompira.

Very good impression and colour. Several small expertly restored wormholes in left margin, otherwise good condition. This design is often coarsely printed – possibly the blocks were softer than normal. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

Umezawa Marsh, Sagami Province. The location appears to be present-day Ninomiya, a city near the coast of Kanagawa Prefecture between Kozu and Odawara. Shows a group of cranes in the foreground with two others flying off towards Fuji. From Hokusai’s most famous  series: Fugaku sanju-rokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” The set of 46 prints published by Eijudo c 1830-32. This is one of the most admired designs from the set and one of the most difficult to find in early state ( like Kajikazawa ). Why this should be is not known: Perhaps they were popular at the time and the blocks wore quickly or softer wood was used. Alternatively, these also tend to be the designs that are printed almost solely in tones of blue and green, and they may have been the first to be designed to show off the new Prussian blue.

Fine, early impression with perfect colour and very full size. Slight centre fold, otherwise fine condition. Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu hitsu.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Horikiri no hana shobu, “Flowering Irises at Horikiri” from Meisho Edo hyakkei, the “One Hundred Views of Edo” published by Uoei between 1856 and 1858 ( this being 1857 ). The village of Horikiri, situated up the Sumida River from Edo, was famous for growing irises, azaleas, morning glory and chrysanthemums. Large foreground images, such as the blooms here, was a popular compositional device used by Hiroshige and impressed and was picked-up by many French artists of the late 19^th century. One of Hiroshige’s most popular prints.

Very good impression with strong woodgrain still evident  in the sky and right iris. Fine colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai HIROSHIGE II (1826-1869)

Ochiai Bridge in heavy rain, Mino Province from an uncompleted set: Shokoku meisho hyakkei, “One Hundred Views of the Provinces.” Published by Uoei between 1859 – 1861 ( this being 1861 ). One of the best prints from a set with many mediocre designs. An evening rain scene showing travellers crossing a fast-flowing torrent.

Superb impression of the first edition with mica at top. Superb colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

 Ichiyusai HIROSHIGE II (1826-1869)

 Suo Iwakuni Kintaibashi, “The Bridge of the Brocade Sash at Iwakuni in Suo Province.” From an uncompleted set: Shokoku meisho hyakkei, “One Hundred Views of the Provinces.” Published by Uoei between 1859 – 1861 ( this being 1859 ). Shows the beautiful five-arch bridge spanning the Nishiki-gawa under heavy snow. The best print from the set and probably Hiroshige’s masterpiece.

 Fine impression of the first edition with extensive mica. Fine colour. Small repaired binding holes right margin and minor marks au verso, otherwise very good condition. Later editions lack variegated cartouche and the colour-banded publisher’s seal in left margin ( see Ukiyo-e Taikei, vol.11, no.64 for the later state ). Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Keisai EISEN (1790-1848)

Magome from the Sixty-nine Stations of the Kisokaido. The set was started by Eisen and published by Hoeido in 1835, but in 1837 Hiroshige took over and completed the series with the publisher Iseiri ( Kinjudo ).

Fine impression. A rare variant first edition with signature but without the large central mountain. Not listed by Strange. There are later editions without signature and with and without central mountain. Fine colour and condition. Signed Keisai ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Kakuchu  Shinonome, “Dawn in the Yoshiwara” from Edo hyakkei, the “One Hundred Views of Edo” published by Uoei between 1856 and 1858 ( this being 1857).  One of the best designs from the set.

Fine impression of the first edition. Fine colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Fujikawa from the so-called “Upright Tokaido.” One of the two snow scenes from the set. Published by Tsutaya Hare 7, 1855.

Very good impression and colour. ( Later editions have a dark sky. ) Small corner repair outside image, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

A chuban print showing a young woman on a rainy night. Karasaki from a set of prints: Eight Scenes of Meeting [ Omi ]. On her umbrella are the characters Mura and Ichi – the publisher Muraichi, published c 1847-1848. Extremely rare: I have not catalogued this set before. This appears to be the Suzuki impression, illustrated in his book, no.205, Utagawa Hiroshige, Juzo Suzuki, Tokyo 1970. Another impression in The Art of Hiroshige, Tsuneo Tamba, Tokyo 1965.

Very good impression and colour. Minor soil, otherwise good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

A chuban print showing a young woman walking in the snow. Evening snow at Mount Hira from a set of prints: Eight Scenes of Meeting [ Omi ]. Published by Muraichi, c 1847-1848. Extremely rare: I have not catalogued this set before and cannot, as yet, locate another illustrated example.

Very good impression and colour. Minor soil, otherwise good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

The second triptych from a set Ise Meisho, Futamigaura no zu. Young girls sightseeing on the beach at Futami. In the background are the “Husband and Wife” rocks. The tasseled ropes indicate this is a Shinto site. This area was a popular tourist attraction. Published by Sanoki, 1847-1852. Rare.

Very fine impression. Perfect colour. Very slight trimming, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Koganegahara, Shimosa Province from the set Fuji sanjurokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” One of the most popular designs from the set. Shows horses in a flower-strewn meadow with a brook and a distant view of Fuji. Published by Tsutaya Kichizo, 1858.

Extremely fine impression ( probably first edition ). Fine colour. Slight centre fold, invisible at front apart from margins, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Kameyama, yuki-bari, “Clear Weather after Snow” from the Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido. The set published by Hoeido and Senkakudo in 1834. One of the finest designs from the set showing a daimyo’s courtege moving up to the 16^th century castle.

Very good impression, colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

An excessively rare triptych showing the interior of a large mansion where a private performance of Kabuki interlude plays is being performed. Some of the most famous actors of the day are shown: Bando Mitsugoro III, Iwai Hanshiro V, and Ichikawa Danjuro VII. One of Hiroshige’s earliest prints published c 1818-20 when Hiroshige was 22-24 years old. Two other impressions appear to be known: The Tamba impression illustrated in The Art of Hiroshige, Tsuneo Tamba, 1965, no.122, p.58; and the Suzuki copy illustrated in Utagawa Hiroshige, Juzo Suzuki, 1970, no.86, which is the impression shown in the Memorial Exhibition of Hiroshige, Number Eighteen, Ukiyo-e Art, The Japan Ukiyo-e Society, 1968, no.1.

Good impression and colour. Some small areas of expert restoration, otherwise good condition. Signed “By special request” Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Hamamatsu from the “Reisho” Tokaido. So-called because of the titles written in formal script. The best Tokaido set after the Hoeido. Shows a pilgrim standing centre with sea-weed gatherers on right. Some boats out in a choppy sea. Published by Marusei c 1851-2. One of the five best designs from the set.

Fine impression and colour. Two paper flaws top left border, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

The Nunobiki waterfall in the Nikko mountains, Settsu Province, from the rare, early set: Honcho Meisho, “Famous Places of Japan.” Published by Fujiokaya Hikotaro, c 1837-9. Fifteen designs are known plus another three which were probably published around 1832. Compare with Keisai Eisen’s design of the same subject. A fine composition.

Fine, early impression. ( The example in Juzo Suzuki, Utagawa Hiroshige, 1970, no.139 appears to be a slightly later state with variant gradation on the waterfall. ) Fine colour. Expert repair top left corner outside image and slight thinning left margin. One small wormhole repaired, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

The poet Li Po ( Japanese: Ri Haku ) admiring the Lo-shan Waterfall. The finest design from the rare nagaban series of ten prints: Shika shashinyo, the “Poets of China and Japan.” ( But without interpreting specific poems. ) Published by Moriya Jihei, c 1833. Li Po is shown in deep contemplation of the waterfall, being held back from toppling over by two small acolytes. One of the great Hokusai designs.

Very good impression. Slight fading and very slight fold mark. Untrimmed. ( There appear to be variations in colour on impressions known of this print. ) Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu no fude.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Otsuki-no-hara, Kai, Otsuki field from the set Fuji sanjurokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.” One of the most desirable designs from the set. Shows autumn grasses and flowers with a small brook and Fuji in the distance. Published by Tsutaya Kichizo, 1858.

Fine impression and colour. Minimal margin soil, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Geisha coming and going through the stone torii leading to the Yasake Shrine, popularly known as the Gion Shrine from the district it is located in. This being one of the major entertainment quarters of Kyoto. Gion-sha setchu, "Gion Shrine in Snow" from a fine set of ten prints: Kyoto meisho no uchi, "Famous Places in Kyoto," published by Eisendo c1834. Extremely rare in this first edition state.

Very fine impression. The first state of the first edition: With subtle bokashi graded
either down ( as here ) or up on the roofs and with the publisher's seal printed in blue
in right margin. Second state with much blacker bokashi and generally darker overall,
with blue publisher's seal. Third state lacks bokashi but still has blue publishers's
seal. Subsequent editions lack the publisher's seal in right margin. Very fine colour.
Small printer's crease top left corner, otherwise perfect condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

The village of Ryudo in snow. Ryudo shoto, "Pines and Waves at Ryudo" from Ryukyo hakkei, the "Eight Views of the Ryukyo Islands" published c1831-32 by Eijudo. An archipelago of  55 islands which was annexed to Japan in 1879.

Very good impression and colour. Small repaired binding holes at left edge, and one or two minor marks, otherwise good condition. Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu hitsu ( in red
cartouche upper left corner ).
 

status: available

Keisai EISEN (1790-1848)

Oiwake from the Sixty-nine Stations of the Kisokaido. The set was started by Eisen and published by Hoeido in 1835, but in 1837 Hiroshige took over and completed the series with the publisher Iseiri ( Kinjudo ). In the distance is Asama-yama, Mount Asama, a volcano which erupted in 1783. It also emitted debris in 1894 and 1900. This is the extremely rare first edition with signature Keisai and seal bottom left. ( Not in Ukiyo-e Taikei .) Unidentified collector's seal au verso.

Fine impression and colour. Minor edge soil, otherwise very good condition. Signed Keisai ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Five ko-tanzaku ( an oban cut into three ) prints of various subjects ( Bon odori,
Sukeroku, Hatchitataki, etc ) from an excessively rare set of 15 such prints from 5
sheets. I have located only one other group ( of six designs duplicating three offered
here ). Published by Matsumura Yahei c late 1830's.

Fine impressions and colour. Some wormage, otherwise very good condition. Signed
Hiroshige ga on each.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Fuchu from the "Reisho" Tokaido. So-called because of the titles written in formal
script. The best Tokaido set after the Hoeido. Shows travellers coming and going at the entrance to the licensed quarter of Fuchu, the old capital of Suruga Province, becoming Shizuoka City in 1868. Published by Marusei c1851-2. One of the five best designs from the set.

Fine impression, colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Hakone from the "Reisho" Tokaido. So-called because of the titles written in formal
script. The best Tokaido set after the Hoeido. Shows travellers holding pine-torches
climbing a mountain path at night. The Hakone Mountains were one of the most gruelling parts of the Tokaido, but at the same time one of the most relaxing with the hot springs, Lake Ashi and the fine cryptomeria trees. Published by Marusei c1851-2. One of the five best designs from the set and probably the masterpiece. The composition and use of kimetsubishi to show the woodgrain in the night sky and mountains makes it one of Hiroshige's most beautiful prints.

Very fine impression. Fine colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.
 

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Full moon at Takanawa. A bijin seated beside her palanquin at a tea house. A mitate set: Edo Murasaki meisho Genji, "Murasaki's Genji in Famous Places of Edo." Based on the Genji Monogatari with stylised clouds above and below in Yamato-e style. Published by Kinseido c1849-53. A very rare set: Late impressions being unknown.

Fine impression and colour. Light crease in left and right margin, otherwise fine
condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

Fuji seen from the second floor of the Mitsui clothing store just north of Nihonbashi (
which became the Mitsubishi department store of modern times ). This was considered a fine spot to view a snow-capped Fuji on New Year's Day, and Hokusai suggests this with the kites being flown. The signs on the gateposts, left and right, state: "Payment in cash" and "No padded prices." From Hokusai's most famous series: Fugaku sanji-rokkei, the "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji." The set of 46 prints published by Eijudo c1830-32. Extremely good provenance: From the Louis Gonse collection ( seal au verso ), sold lot 111, p.36, 1st Part, 1924. One of a large group from this set, obviously from the same original source.

Fine, beautiful clean impression. Fine colour. Very slight centre fold, otherwise very
good condition. Full size. Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu hitsu.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

A rainstorm at Suhara. One of the most important compositions from the Sixty-nine
Stations of the Kisokaido. The set started by Eisen and published by Hoeido in 1835; but in 1837 Hiroshige took over and completed the series with the publisher Iseiri ( Kinjudo ). Suhara is located below Agematsu in the Kiso Valley and is subject to torrential rain in the summer months when humid air from the coastal plains hits the cooler air of the mountains. There are variant states of this design with differences in colour and gradation. This is an early impression.

Very good impression. Slight fading, otherwise very good colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861) 

Nichiren  struggling up a snow-covered mountain near Tsukahara on the Island of Sado. The best design from Koso goichidai ryakuza, the "Illustrated Abridged Biography of the Founder." Published by Iseya Rihei, c 1831. Like many great landscapes, there exist different states which causes confusion over which is the earliest. The basic difference is that the design is known with and without a horizon line and that there is at least one impression where the uninked, blind-printed line can be seen in a raked light. It has been asserted that those impressions without are the earliest; however, it seems from this that the sumi block was probably cut initially with the line but the publishers quickly realised it looked aesthetically better without printing it, and it was subsequently removed. In any case, this is an extremely rare print and most surviving examples appear to be similar in impression. There is a break in the border to the left of the bottom of Kuniyoshi's signature which could give a guide to the earliest states, but as this is often painted in, it is not reliable. The print offered here is printed with the mountain coloured brown and the overall effect is more dramatic than other impressions and appears to be the only such example, being the one illustrated in various publications. The composition is based on a design in the illustrated book Bunpo sansui gafu by Kawamura Bunpo, published posthumously in 1824. Although not from a landscape set this is considered one of the great 19th century landscapes. Provenance: Ex collection Willibald Netto, Dusseldorf, Germany.

Very good impression and colour with extensive splashed gofun ( now oxidised ). Minor marks and edge soil. Small repair top right corner, but generally very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi hitsu.

status: sold

Keisai EISEN (1790-1848)

A rare triptych showing a multitude of pleasure boats enjoying the cool of the evening on the Sumidagawa. Ryogoku Bridge in the background and exploding rockets above. This was a subject that inspired numerous artists and depicts the essence of ukiyoe. No doubt the public were meant to identify some of the figures in the foreground vessels. Published c late 1820s. Publisher Yamashiroya Shojiro Yasuko.
 

Very good impression and colour with the fugitive blue and purple intact. Slight soil on centre sheet otherwise very good condition: Full size with extra paper all round. Signed Keisai Eisen ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

The priest Nichiren having his prayers for rain answered. The second best design from Koso goichidai ryakuzu, "Illustrated Abridged Biography of the Founder". This event happened at Ryozengasaki in Kamakura in 1271. Nichiren was the founder of the Buddhist Nichiren sect ( Nichiren shu - Kuniyoshi being a follower ) and indeed the set of ten prints may have been commissioned to mark the 550th anniversary of his death. Published c 1831 by Iseya Rihei.

Very fine impression of the earliest printing. Fine colour. Extra large margins. ( This design is notorious for having the umbrella trimmed off and/or the title in right margin. ) Very minimal soil bottom right margin, otherwise fine condition. The best example of this fine design I have ever seen. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

A poem by the Lady of Ise ( the daughter of Fujiwara no Tsugukage ) from Hyakunin isshu ubaga etoki, the "Hundred Poems Explained by the Nurse". An uncompleted set of twenty-seven prints with many drawings and key-block proofs extant. Shows the shore of Naniwa Inlet ( near modern Osaka ). A young woman is seated at the window of a house which is just being completed by builders putting on roof tiles. Published c 1839 by Eijudo.

Fine early impression with strong wood grain. Fine colour. Slight centre fold and trimming left and bottom. Signed Zen Hokusai Manji. Eijudo and censor's seal are blind-printed on this design.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Bizen, Yukazan. A figureless snow scene and the best design from the set of twenty prints entitled: Sankai mitate sumo, "Mountains and Sea Contending like Wrestlers". The title in an umpire's fan used for wrestling matches, top right. The set published and sealed Horse 7 and 8 ( 1858 ) by Yamadaya. ( Happer lists it as the previous Horse Year 1846. ) The set is divided into ten designs of mountains and ten prints of harbours.

Fine impression of the first edition ( variegated cartouche ). Fine colour. Very slight centre fold and the usual oxidation, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Autumn moon at Ishiyama, Ishiyama no shugetsu, from the set of eight prints: Eight Views in Omi Province published 1834 by Hoeido. "Eight Views" was borrowed from Chinese poetry and each print conveys, pictorially, the kyoka poem written in the square label at the top right. To the left, hidden in trees, is the temple where Murasaki Shikibu ( c 978 - c 1014 ) wrote her great novel Tales of Genji. The scene shows Lake Biwa, Seta Bridge and Mount Hira on the horizon. Hiroshige probably never surpassed the ethereal, figureless quality this set possesses.

Very good impression, colour and condition with good margins. The top-left mountain always shows slippage of the blue block on this design. The set was advertised as a "work in black and white, lightly coloured" and early states have a very limited palette. Later editions of this design incorporate green and brown into the cliffs on the left. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Mochizuki, one of the most important compositions, from the Sixty-nine Stations of the Kisokaido. The set was started by Eisen and published by Hoeido in 1835, but in 1837 Hiroshige took over and completed the series with the publisher Iseiri ( Kinjudo ). Mochizuki means full moon and this station was named thus because the horses of the imperial court, which were grazed in open pasture in the mountains above this spot, were returned to court on the fifteenth of August, the day of the first autumn full moon. Like other major designs in the set, there exist numerous states with differences in printing. Early editions should have gradation on the mountains to the right. There is scope for research on the differences on major designs in this set.

Fine early impression with strong wood grain showing in the sky. Fine colour. Almost invisible centre fold. Left margin trimmed close, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Nagakubo, one of the most important compositions, from the Sixty-nine Stations of the Kisokaido. The set was started by Eisen and published by Hoeido in 1835, but in 1837 Hiroshige took over and completed the series with the publisher Iseiri ( Kinjudo ). Shows a full moon over the River Ida. Like other major designs in the set, there are numerous states with differences in printing. Early editions show the mountains subtly printed - and also the figures on the bridge - grading off to the right with crisp seals. Later editions lack the mountains and a darker sumi is used.

Very good, early impression. Very good colour. Centre fold, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Mount Fuji as seen from the sea off Tsukudajima, Tsukuda oki kaisei no Fuji, from Toto Fujimi sanjurokkei, the "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji from the Eastern Capital". An uncompleted set published by Murataya Jirobei, c 1843-5. This stunning composition has European elements ( and supposedly the cartouche was inspired by the coat of arms used by the Dutch for the City of Batavia ( present day Jacarta, Indonesia ). The first edition. In the second the poem is removed and the title moved slightly to the left. But both are of the utmost rarity and one of the three great Kuniyoshi landscapes: Apart from the Bidwell impression ( most commonly illustrated ), there is one copy in the Tokyo National Museum ( 2nd Edition ); another ( ex Blondeau ) is illustrated by Suzuki; and one is in the Victoria and Albert Museum ( 2nd edition ). So there appear to be at least four impressions extant ( apart from this ). Illustrated in: Prints By Utagawa Kuniyoshi - Bidwell Collection, 1968, no 81, p. 97

Heroes and Ghosts, Robert Schaap, 1998, no 222, p.199 ( Bidwell impression ); Kuniyoshi, Nihon Keizai Shimbun inc, 1996, no 197, p. 146 ( Bidwell impression ); Utagawa Kuniyoshi 1797-1861, Riccar Art Museum, 1978, no 19 ( Bidwell impression ); Kuniyoshi, Juzo Suzuki, Heibonsha Ltd., 1992, no 29 ( ex Blondeau  coll. ); T.N.M.C. ( vol. 3 ), no 3043 ( 2nd edition ).

Fine early impression with woodgrain evident. Fine colour. Margins trimmed but retaining border. Collector's seal Hayashi bottom left corner and another unidentified seal bottom right corner. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold