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Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 - 1858 )



Mama no Momiji Tekona no Yashiro Tsugihashi, " The Red Maples of Mama at Tekona Shrine" from Meisho Edo hyakkei, the "One Hundred Views of Edo" published by Uoei between 1856 and 1858 ( this being Snake 1, 1857 ). Shows russet-coloured leaves between the boughs of an old maple. In the distance ponds and rice fields stretching to the distant Tsukuba hills. One of the finest designs from the set. Ex Illing collection. This impression illustrated in Richard Illing, Japanese Prints, Phaidon, 1976, no. 93.

Fine impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Left margin shaved towards top but retaining black border, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

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Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 - 1858 )



Motoyama 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 two loggers relaxing on a tree that they have felled beneath another trunk that leans awkwardly across the path supported by a trestle making for a dramatic composition. These mountain areas supplied the timber for Edo.

Fine, early impression. Fine colour and very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

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Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 - 1858 )

 

Kashiwabara 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 ). An evening scene showing porters outside the famous Kameya or Turtle shop. Besides the medicines and herbs, the shop also sold refreshments.
 

Very fine impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

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Keisai EISEN ( 1790 - 1848 )
 

Kutsukake no eki Hiratsukahara uchu no kei, " Kutsukake Station, Rain on the Nearby Plain of Hiratsuka" 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 ). A windy autumnal squall over the Hiratsuka flood plain. One of the best Eisen designs from the set. Known in various states and colour variations. The very rare first edition has the signature lower right corner.

Very good impression. Fine colour. Very good condition. Unsigned.

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Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 - 1858 )

Eitaibashi no zue, "Eitai Bridge" from an Edo meisho set published by Senichi, c 1840-42. An extremely rare set, obviously not popular as examples are only known in fine impression. ( Not listed in Edward Strange's monograph on Hiroshige. ) Illustrated in colour, Tamba, The Art of Hiroshige, no. 36. Aiban.

Very fine impression. Fine colour. Minor backed wormage top right corner. Very full margins. Signed Hiroshige ga.
 

status: sold

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Utagawa KUNIYOSHI ( 1797 – 1861 )



The priest Nichiren calming a storm at Kakuda on his way to Sado Island by invoking the name of the Lotus Sutra ( namu myoho rengekyo ) which is shown written on the waves. From Koso goichidai ryakuzu, “Illustrated Abridged Biography of the Founder. “ 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. This is the first edition with black spots printed in the sky; splashed gofun; gradation on the distant sea; blue gradation at top, and grey mountain. One of the three best designs from the set. ( See this website for the snow scene and Nichiren praying for rain. )

Fine impression and colour. Minor soil and slight centre fold. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold

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Keisai EISEN ( 1790 – 1848 )



Kuragano Station, Karasu River, Kuragano shuku Karasugawa no zu 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 ). Situated at the confluence of three rivers, the Tone, Karasu and Kabura. In spring a ferry service was available down to Edo. The station can be seen on the far shore. Small children play in the foreground watched by a lady taking tea at a rest-stop. This appears to be the earliest state known of this design – earlier than the first edition example illustrated in the NHK exhibition catalogue, Hiroshige: Tokaido and Kisokaido, 2006, pl. 14, p. 43, with greater subtlety in the printing and gradation on the river.

Very fine impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Slight centre fold, otherwise very good condition. Signed Eisen ga.

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Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )



Evening Rain at Karasaki, Karasaki no yau, the finest design from the set: Omi hakkei no uchi, “Eight Views in Omi Province.” The series of eight prints was published by Hoeido and Eikyudo, c. 1834-5. When first published it was advertised as a “work in black and white, lightly coloured, “ and Hiroshige was never to surpass the ethereal quality that these figureless landscapes possess. The theme “Eight Views” was borrowed from Chinese poetry and each print conveys pictorially the poem written in the square label at the top right. Beside it, in a red label, is the series title. The designs for the set are known in various states and there are variations in colouring and gradation. This is particularly relevant to this design and there is dispute as to which is the earliest state. In fact the first printing appears to be the Yan Buhl impression illustrated in Hiroshige, Hotei publishing, 2008, no. 48, p. 54: the kiwame seal on this example is higher than on all other printings ( presuming no remargining, which does not appear to be the case ); the break on the top of the right rigging of the tallest boat, far right, is not evident, and the gradation on the pine is across the top and down towards the bottom right. Many of these great designs seemed to inspire the publishers and/or printers to experiment with different colour schemes and gradation. ( As with the Kuniyoshi Nichiren in snow on this website. ) Later states had gradation completely across top of pine; down left side only; or with gradation from the bottom up, and a green version is also known. The later editions also had the area around the Hoeido seal cleared so that the rain did not intrude. The old pine no longer exists and was replaced with another. One of the finest 19th century landscapes. An almost abstract composition which transcends the usual views of the countryside that the curious Edo public bought and the views of the capital purchased as souvenirs, to reach a completely different aesthetic.

Fine, early impression with the gradation at top of pine and down towards right. Very good colour. Minor restoration, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

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Utagawa 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." Nichiren being 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 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 thought that 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 has the horizon line and the gradation at the base of the mountain upwards. Left border line is unbroken. The composition is based on a design in the illustrated book Bumpo sansui gafu by Kawamura Bumpo, published posthumously in 1824. Although not from a landscape set, this is considered one of the great 19th century landscapes. Provenance: Ex collection Hans Crzellitzer, seal top right corner.

Very good impression. Some fading and light soil. Slight centre fold. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi hitsu.

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Katsushika HOKUSAI ( 1760 – 1849 )



Figures crossing the Fukui Bridge, Echizen Province, Echizen Fukui-no-hashi. From a set of eleven prints with title: Shokoku meikyo kiran, “Novel Views of Famous Bridges in Various Provinces” published by Eijudo, c. 1827-30.

Very good impression and colour. Minor trimming. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.
 

status: sold

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Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )



Gyotoku kihan, “Returning Sails at Gyotoku “ from the series Edo kinko hakkei no uchi, “Eight Views of the Environs of Edo. “ A very fine early set published by Kikakudo, c. 1837 – 8. The first private edition of this set was commissioned by the contemporary poet Taihaido and these prints have Taihaido kaihan, “Prints inaugurated by Taihaido “ in the left margin and three or four poems. They were probably for the poetry club and are excessively rare. The commercial edition is also rare and they are invariably fine impressions with one or two poems.

Very fine impression. Fine colour. Left margin remargined but retaining black border, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: available

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )



Yodo-gawa from Setsugekka, Snow, Moon and Flowers. A traditional concept that provided the subject for sets of paintings and prints by Ukiyo-e artists. Shows boats being hauled up the river, which flowed passed Osaka, under a full moon. Under the Tokugawa boats were allowed to sail the river with mail, a tax being levied on every vessel. Published by Yohachi, c. 1833.

Fine early impression of the first edition with the moon overprinted. Very fine colour. Trimmed left ( where the title is near border ), otherwise fine condition. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.

status: available

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )
 

Sesshu Temma-bashi, Temma Bridge, Setsu Province. From a set of eleven prints with title: Shokoku meikyo kiran “Novel Views of Famous Bridges in Various Provinces” published by Eijudo, c 1827-30.
Very good impression and colour. Centre fold. Full size. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.

status: available

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )



Yamashiro Arashiyama Togetsu-kyo, the Crossing-Moon Bridge at Arashiyama, Yamashiro Province. From a set of eleven prints with title: Shokoku meikyo kiran “Novel Views of Famous Bridges in Various Provinces” published by Eijudo, c 1827-30.

Good impression and colour. Trimmed round. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.

status: available

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )

Kameido Tenjin taiko-bashi, the Drum Bridge at the Kameido Tenjin Shrine. From a set of eleven prints with title: Shokoku meikyo kiran “Novel Views of Famous Bridges in Various Provinces” published by Eijudo, c 1827-30.

Very good impression. Slight thinned areas and rubbing at centre. Full size. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.

status: available

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )



Sesshu Aji-gawa-guchi Tempozan, the mouth of the Aji River, Tempozan, Setsu Province. From a set of eleven prints with title: Shokoku meikyo kiran “Novel Views of Famous Bridges in Various Provinces” published by Eijudo, c 1827-30.

Very good impression. Slight fading and small restored wormhole. Full size. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )

Figures crossing the Kintai-kyo, the Bridge of the Brocade Sash, in rain. This bridge of five wooden arches in Suo Province was “famed throughout the length and breadth of Japan”. From a set of eleven prints with title: Shokoku meikyo kiran “Novel Views of Famous Bridges in Various Provinces” published by Eijudo, c 1827-30. A fine design.

Fine impression and colour. Very full size. Imperceptible centre fold, otherwise fine condition. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )



Washu Yoshino, Yoshitsune Umaarai-no-taki. The waterfall of Yoshitsune from a set of eight prints: Shokoku Tamimeguri, Going the Round of the Waterfalls of the Various Provinces. The set published by Eijudo c 1830. Shows two figures washing-down a horse in the fall.

Fine impression and colour. Centre fold and some thinning at top with signs of a removed seal. Full size. ( These prints are notorious for being trimmed because of their large size, and most illustrated examples suffer from this to some degree. ) Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )



Toto, Aoigaoka-no-taki. The waterfall of Aoigaoka from a set of eight prints: Shokoku Tamimeguri, Going the Round of the Waterfalls of the Various Provinces. The set published by Eijudo c 1830. Shows the fall pouring over a stone wall from a lake.

A beautiful fine impression . Perfect colour and almost perfect condition. ( These prints are notorious for being trimmed because of their large size, and most illustrated examples suffer from this to some degree. ) Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )



Soshu Oyama, Roben-no-taki. The waterfall of Roben, Oyama, Province of Soshu from the set of eight prints: Shokoku Tamimeguri, “Going the Rounds of the Waterfalls of the Various Provinces”. The set published by Eijudo, c 1830. Shows coolies bathing beneath the fall, some carrying the ski-like norimon poles.

Fine impression and colour ( a variant colour scheme exists with roofs green ). Slight trimming left and bottom. The seals are nearly always trimmed on this design due to them being printed at extreme left edge. ( These prints are notorious for being trimmed because of their large size, and most illustrated examples suffer from this to some degree. ) Ex Hayashi collection. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )

Tokaido Sakanoshita, Kiyotaki Kannon. The waterfall at Kiyotaki Kannon Temple, Sakanoshita on the Tokaido from the set of eight prints: Shokoku Tamimeguri, “Going the Rounds of the Waterfalls of the Various Provinces”. The set published by Eijudo, c 1830.

Fine impression. Later editions had the left slope printed grey. Fine colour. Slight trimming at bottom. ( These prints are notorious for being trimmed because of their large size, and most illustrated examples suffer from this to some degree. ) Slight centre fold, otherwise very good condition. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )



A poem by Gonchunagon Sadaie from Hyakunin isshu ubaga etoki, the "Hundred Poems Explained by the Nurse." An uncompleted set of twenty-eight prints with many drawings and key-block proofs extant. Shows the burning of seaweed. Figures to the left are stacking bundles of dried kelp. On the right, protected from rain, is a kiln for burning the kelp. The ash was then taken and mixed with water. The saturated solution being boiled to leave just the salt.

Fine early impression with strong woodgrain. ( Early impressions, as here, have gradation at top of left bank. ) Fine colour. Slight trimming left and top and slight soil top left, otherwise fine condition. Signed Zen Hokusai Manji.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )



A poem by Minamoto from Hyakunin isshu ubaga etoki, the "Hundred Poems Explained by the Nurse." An uncompleted set of twenty-eight prints with many drawings and key-block proofs extant. Shows hunters and foresters warming their hands at a log-fire outside a mountain hut. A beautiful example of this fine design.

Fine impression and colour. Full size with extra paper at top. Signed Zen Hokusai Manji.

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-eight 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

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 and is one of the rarer designs. 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 I-itsu hitsu.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )



Tsouribashi ( the Hanging Bridge ) between the two provinces of Hida and Etchu from the “Bridges” set, Shokoku meikyo kiran, “Novel Views of Famous Bridges in Various Provinces.” The set of eleven prints published by Eijudo, c. 1827 – 30. Shows two figures with heavy loads traversing the bamboo and cord bridge stretching across a chasm. Probably – with Funabashi – the best design from the set and one of Hokusai’s most beautiful compositions.

Fine early impression; very good colour. Full size. Almost indiscernible centre fold, otherwise fine condition. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu no fude.
 

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760 – 1849 )



Funabashi, “The Bridge of Boats” at Sano in the Province of Kozuke in snow. The strong tide of the River Tone forced the boats, held together by cables, into a curve. Together with Tsouribashi, the best design from the set Shokoku meikyo kiran, “Novel Views of Famous Bridges in Various Provinces.” The set of eleven prints published by Eijudo, c. 1827 – 30. Shows figures crossing the pontoon bridge warmly wrapped against the cold weather.

Very good impression and colour. Very slight trimming at left, otherwise very full with extra paper top and right. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu no fude.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )
 

Heavy snow and visitors to the Shiba Jingu Palace from an oban set Edo Meisho of approx. 45 prints published by Yamada-ya, 1853 – 1858, half being published in 1853. This design published 1858. A rare snow scene.

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

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )
 

The Sanza Theatre, Saruwaka-cho showing women on the balcony of a tea-house overlooking the street from an oban set Edo Meisho of approx. 45 prints published by Yamada-ya, 1853 – 1858, half being published in 1853. This design published 1858.

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

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )
 

A party of children cherry blossom viewing at Hiryu (?) zan with Fuji in the distance from an oban set Edo Meisho of approx. 45 prints published by Yamada-ya, 1853 – 1858, half being published in 1853. This design published 1853.

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

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )

 

The gardens of the Kameido Shrine from an oban set Edo Meisho of approx. 45 prints published by Yamada-ya, 1853 – 1858, half being published in 1853. This design published 1853.

Very good impression and colour. Slight centre fold and minor marks, otherwise good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )
 

Chikuji, Saigo mon (?). Shows visitors to the temple compound from an oban set Edo Meisho of approx. 45 prints published by Yamada-ya, 1853 – 1858, half being published in 1853. This design published 1854.

Very good impression and colour. Slight centre fold, otherwise good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 – 1858 )

 

Aoi Hill at Kompira Shrine outside Toranomon Gate from an oban set Edo Meisho of approx. 45 prints published by Yamada-ya, 1853 – 1858, half being published in 1853. This design published 1858.

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

status: sold

Utagawa TOYOKUNI II ( 1777 – 1835 )

 

Fuji bosetsu, Evening Snow on Fuji from a set of Eight Famous Views published by Iseya Rihei, c. 1833-4. Fuji towers over a religious compound. Toyokuni, like Kuniyoshi, Kunisada, Gakutei and Hokkei, while not known as a landscapes artist, produced a few fine examples, as here. Rare.

Very fine impression and colour. Fine condition. The first edition: It’s not generally known that there are two editions with the title recut. Also, the purple colour in the title label invariably fades to a puce colour. Signed Toyokuni hitsu.

status: sold

Kochoro KUNISADA ( 1786 – 1865 )

 

Sunrise at Futamigaura, Futamigaura akebono no zu from an untitled set of ten landscapes published by Kinkodo c. 1832. Shows the husband and wife rocks at Futami beach in Ise Province. A Shinto site indicated by the rope and gateways on top of the left rock. Kunisada, like Kuniyoshi, Toyoshige, Gakutei and Hokkei, while not known as a landscapes artist, produced a few fine examples, as here. Rare.

Fine impression, the waves gauffraged. Minor soil and marks, otherwise very good colour and condition. Signed Kochoro Kunisada ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 - 1858 )

 

A chutanzaku print showing Asakusa, Kinryuzan [ Temple ] in snow from a rare set of Famous Views of the Eastern Capital. For others - probably from the same set - see Kobijutsu, Special Edition, Hiroshige, number 3, 1983, nos. 193, 195, 197, 198 and 199. No publisher's seal, c.1840-41. See Hiroshige's 1856 oban version of the same subject from the 100 Views of Edo on this website.

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

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 - 1858 )
 

Evening Bell at Miidera Temple, Mii no bansho, from the set: Omi hakkei no uchi,

"Eight Views in Omi Province." The series of eight prints was published by Hoeido and Eikyudo, c.1834-5. When first published it was advertised as a "work in black and white, lightly coloured," and Hiroshige was never to surpass the ethereal quality that these figureless landscapes possess. The theme "Eight Views" was borrowed from Chinese poetry and each print conveys pictorially the poem written in the square label at the top right. Beside it, in a red label, is the series title. The designs for the set are known in various states and there are variations in colouring and gradation.

Very good impression. Fine colour. Imperceptible centre fold, otherwise fine condition. A lovely example on thick hosho of this design. Beautiful colouring without the brown gradation at base which detracts from some impressions. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 - 1858 )

 

Weather Clearing at Awazu, Awazu no seiran, from the set: Omi hakkei no uchi, "Eight Views in Omi Province." The series of eight prints was published by Hoeido and Eikyudo, c.1834-5. When first published it was advertised as a "work in black and white, lightly coloured," and Hiroshige was never to surpass the ethereal quality that these figureless landscapes possess. The theme "Eight Views" was borrowed from Chinese poetry and each print conveys pictorially the poem written in the square label at the top right. Beside it, in a red label, is the series title. The designs for the set are known in various states and there are variations in colouring and gradation.

Very good impression. Some slight fading, otherwise very good condition. Seal of Wakai Kenzaburo ( 1834-1908 ) bottom left corner. Wakai was a dealer and collector in Paris and Hayashi became his assistant. When Wakai retired in 1886 Hayashi went on to become the most successful dealer in France. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Keisai EISEN ( 1790 - 1848 )
 

Konosu 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 travellers on a zig-zag path that disappears into a range of mountains on the right. To the left, a large Fuji towers over the landscape. The very rare first edition with signature - which is lacking on later states - and differences in colour and gradation. The removal of the signature was presumably because the publishers wanted the public to think the designs were by Hiroshige , the better known landscape artist of the two.

Very fine impression and colour. Extremely large margins. Fine condition. Signed Eisen 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 the same subject published two years later on this website. ) A famous design and justly popular.

Good impression with 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 the sky as they do not show the distinctive woodgrain. Slight fading and marks, otherwise good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai HIROSHIGE II ( 1826 - 1869 )
 

Harima: Heavy snow at Muro-no-tsu from an uncompleted set: Shokoku meisho hyakkei, "One Hundred Views of the Provinces." Published by Uoei between 1859 - 1861 ( this being 1859 ). One of the best designs from an otherwise unexceptional set.

Superb impression of the first edition. Very fine colour. Small backed binding holes at right margin edge, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 - 1858 )

A rare tanzaku from a Toto Meisho set showing Nihonbashi in snow. Edo Castle and Mount Fuji in the background forming a clever zig-zag composition. Published by Shogendo c. 1837-8. Illustrated in colour in Tsuneo Tamba, The Art of Hiroshige, pl. 32.

Very good impression and colour. Small repaired wormage top right edge, otherwise good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Hasegawa SADANOBU I ( 1809 - 1879 )

Ryoanji yuki akebono, "Ryoan Temple in Snow at Daybreak" from the series Miyako meisho no uchi, "A Set of Famous Views of the Capital [ Kyoto ]." A set of at least 30 chuban prints published by Osaka Wataya c. late 1850's - early 1860's. Shows visitors to the Zen temple. One of the best designs from the set.

Fine impression and colour. Very small repair top right corner, otherwise very good condition. Signed Sadanobu ga.

status: sold

Hasegawa SADANOBU I ( 1809 - 1879 )

Through the masts of cargo vessels and heavy rain can be seen a guardhouse at the convergence of the Aji and Kizu Rivers from the set Naniwa hyakkei meisho shashin kagami, "A Mirror of 100 Famous Views of Osaka - truthfully Copied." Around 63 chuban designs are known and this is one of the best. Published c. late 1850's - early 1860's by Wataki.

Fine impression and colour. Minor marks, otherwise very good condition. Signed Sadanobu sha.

status: sold

Hasegawa SADANOBU I ( 1809 - 1879 )

Shijo-bashi yori Nawate-dori Yamato-bashi o nozomu, "View from Shijo Bridge Towards Yamato Bridge at Nawate Street" from the series Miyako meisho no uchi, "A Set of Famous Views of the Capital [ Kyoto ]." A set of at least 30 chuban prints published by Osaka Wataya c. late 1850's - early 1860's. Shows people crossing the bridge, the whole scene under heavy snow. One of the best designs from the set.

Fine impression and colour. Minor marks, otherwise very good condition. Signed Sadanobu ga.

status: available

Katsushika HOKUSAI ( 1760 - 1849 )

Onden no suisha, "Waterwheel at Onden" 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. The Onden area is now traversed by a broad avenue running up to the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo. In Hokusai's time the area was partly agricultural with streams flowing through. In this case the water turning a large waterwheel. Peasants using the water and carrying sacks to the mill. One of the best designs from the set.

 Fine impression and colour with the red Eijudo and kiwame seals and strong woodgrain in the area near signature which only shows on early impressions. Imperceptible centre fold and slight trimming bottom and right, otherwise very good condition. Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu hitsu.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE ( 1797 - 1858 )

A rare triptych showing fireworks over Ryogoku bridge with numerous pleasure boats negotiating the huge trestles of the bridge. A fine design published 1847 - 50 by Sanoki.

Very fine impression. Pristine colour and condition. Totally untrimmed and with deluxe double-printed red. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

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 19th 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. Later editions have the right iris printed with solid colour. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

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: sold

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: sold

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: sold

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: sold

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: sold

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: sold

status: sold

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: 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)

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: sold

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: sold

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: sold

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: sold

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: sold

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: sold

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

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

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Seba 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 ). Seba literally means “washing the horse” and this is the place where Minamoto no Yoshinaka ( 1145-84 ) was once supposed to have cleaned his horse in the River Narai which meanders through the plains near Lake Suwa. The men on boats appear to be trying to reach Seba before nightfall. The masterpiece from the set. Numerous states exist of this print and there is not enough room here to go into them all: Some impressions have grey/black clouds above, some blue; some have a red cloud across the moon; some have the sky printed yellow towards the left, etc. Later editions have the trees removed on the horizon and lack the stripes in the water.

Good impression; very good colour. Minimal edge soil, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Oiso from the Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido. The set published by Hoeido and Senkakudo c 1833-4. Shows travellers entering the coastal village under rain and a yellow sky. Hiroshige’s title for this design: “The Rain of Tora” is a reference to the tearful Kabuki play concerning a prostitute Tora and her child.

Very good impression and colour. Minimal edge soil and uneven trimming of margins. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

Snow at Suidobashi from the set Musashi hyakkei no uchi, the “One Hundred Views of Musashi” ( Musashi being the plain in which Tokyo lies ). The set was modelled on Hiroshige’s 100 Views of Edo but only 34 prints were ever produced by the publisher Kobayashi Tetsujiro in 1884/5.

Fine impression of the first edition. Perfect colour and condition with mica added. Signed Shinseiro Kiyochika ga.

               

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

“Evening Rain at Kozumi” Kozumi no yau from the early set Kanazawa hakkei, “Eight Views in Kanazawa” published by Koshimuraya Heisuke, c 1835-6. This is an extremely rare and fine set and examples in good condition are very difficult to find. 31-syllable waka poem above.

 Very good impression. ( Later states have a mountain range printed in the background and different colour scheme. ) Fine colour and condition with large margins. Signed Hiroshige ga.

               

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

“Evening Snow at Uchikawa”, Uchikawa bosetsu from the early set Kanazawa hakkei, “Eight Views in Kanazawa” published by Koshimuraya Heisuke, c 1835-6. This is an extremely rare and fine set and examples in good condition are very difficult to find. 31-syllable waka poem above. One of Hiroshige’s finest compositions.

 Fine impression, colour and condition with large margins. Signed Hiroshige ga.

                          

     status: available

Keisai EISEN (1790-1848)

The Kegon Waterfall from the set: Celebrated Views in the Nikko Mountains published by Yamamoto, c 1844. The set obviously inspired by Hokusai’s earlier waterfall set of eight prints, but impressions are rarer indicating it may not have been so popular.

Very good impression and colour. Slight soil around edges and thinned area in top margin. Signed Keisai Eisen utsusu.

                                 

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858 )

Ueno sannai, Tsuki-no-matsu, “Moon Pine, Ueno Temple Precincts” from Meisho 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. Slight toning, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

                 

status: sold

Aoigaoka HOKKEI (1780-1850)

Izu, Goseiki no Mida, A boat navigating a rocky promentary from Hokkei’s most famous series: Shokoku meisho, “Famous Views of the Provinces” ( here Izu Province ) published by Eijudo and Nakamuraya Katsugoro, c 1830’s. This set of long, narrow, large-tanzaku format prints is one of the finest landscape series by any artist and is extremely rare. The complete set of thirteen prints is listed in Images from the Floating World, Richard Lane, 1978, p. 254. I have located images of 7 from this set but am unable to find the others at the moment. ( Images found for: Lane 3; 4; 5; 6; 8; 9; & 13. )

Very good impression and colour. Minor soil and small expert repairs at top two corners, otherwise good condition. Signed Hokkei ga.

                              

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Hira bosetsu, “Evening Snow at Mount Hira” from the vertical Omi Hakkei set, “Eight Views of Omi [ Lake Biwa ]”, published by Uoya Eikichi, Snake 7, 1857.

Superb impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Several minor marks and lower margin trimmed slightly, otherwise fine. Signed Hiroshige ga.

                              

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Karasaki yayu “Evening Rain at Karasaki Pine Tree” from the vertical Omi Hakkei set, “Eight Views of Omi [ Lake Biwa ]”, published by Uoya Eikichi, Snake 7, 1857.

Superb impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Slight trimming of margin, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

                               

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Yabase kihan, “Fishing Boats Returning to Yabase” from the vertical Omi Hakkei set, “Eight Views of Omi [ Lake Biwa ]”, published by Uoya Eikichi, Snake 7, 1857.

Superb impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Slight trimming of margins, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

                  

status: sold

Shotei HOKUJU (active 1787-1818)

Kai no kuni Saruhashi no shinsha no zu, “A True View of the Monkey Bridge in the Province of Kai”. An impressive wooden bridge spans a deep chasm. It was called the “Monkey Bridge” because the original rickety, plank structure was so precarious that only an agile monkey could cross it. Hokuju produced a number of these westernised landscapes and this design is one of the very best. First edition published by Nishimuraya Yohachi, c 1815. It is also known with a variant colour scheme.

Fine impression, colour and condition. Extremely full size with extra paper around. Signed Shotei Hokuju ga.

                  

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Wada 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 ). Wada is the highest point on the Kisokaido and Hiroshige shows travellers traversing the snow covered pass. One of the major designs from the set.

Very fine early impression. Fine colour. Slight moisture blemish at top edge and slight soil top right margin. Imperceptible centre fold and slight trimming of margins at left and right, otherwise a fine example of this design. Signed Hiroshige ga.

                           

status: available

Ichiyusai HIROSHIGE II (1826-1869)

Tsukudajima gyoshu, “Fishing Boats at Tsukuda Island” from Toto sanjurokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of the Eastern Capital” published by Se-To between 1859-1862. Shows tall vessels in the foreground and cormorant fishermen in the distance.

Very fine impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Minimal wormage in right margin, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

                           

status: available

Ichiyusai HIROSHIGE II (1826-1869)

Shitaya, Hiroko-ji “Hirokoji Avenue, Shitaya” from Toto sanjurokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of the Eastern Capital” published by Se-To between 1859-1862. Shows figures struggling in a blustery shower. 

Very fine impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Minimal wormage in right margin, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

                 

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

A masterly design showing a view of Matsuchi Hill and the Taiko Bridge in winter, looking across the Sumida River with a ferry-boat in the foreground. Published Meiji 29 ( 1896 ).

Fine impression, colour and condition. Signed Kiyochika.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

An excessively rare original sketch-book with MS. Diary at the end recording the last part of a trip Hiroshige started April 2^nd 1841 from Edo to Kofu, this covering Nov. 13^th – Nov. 22^nd 1841. Sumi on paper vigorously drawn and annotated with names and memoranda in Hiroshige’s writing. 7.75 x 5 inches containing 38 pages, two blank, with inscription on cover: “Memories of Travel”.In slip-case inscribed HIROSHIGE/K.M.C. ( presumably the owner after Dr. J. Hutchinson ). Ex collections Mr Wilson Crewdson and then Dr. Jonathan Hutchinson FRCS ( vice-president Council of the Japan Society, London ). This diary is fully discussed and catalogued in The Colour-Prints of Hiroshige, Edward F. Strange, Cassell & Co. Ltd., 1925, pps 71-82 and 122-123 and illustrates two double pages. Contents are as follows:

Page(s):

1. Title. Memories of Travel.

2. ( Blank ).

3. Taiko Iwa. Rock called Drum Rock.

4, 5. Mitake Michi, Gedo-no-hara, Koshu. Devil’s Plain on the way to Mount           Mitake, Koshu or Kai Province. The rock on the summit of the mountain is called   Katana nuki-ishi. ( 2-page. ) 

6, 7. The view continued from No. 2 ( 2-page. )  

8, 9. Kurakake Iwa. Saddle Rock ( 2-page ).

10, 11. Zo-ga-hana. Cliff called Elephant Trunk ( 2-page. )

12. Mitake Omon. Great Gate, Mitake.

13. ( Blank ).

14, 15. Place called Kajikazawa on the bank of the River Fuji, on the way to Mount Minobu. Two houses on the hill are tea-houses. There is an inn in the town. The whole way from this town to Mount Minobu has most beautiful scenery. Both banks are mountains and hills and the River Fuji flows between the mountains. ( 2-page. )

16, 17. Sentaku Ishi. Large flat rock of that name, near Kiri-ishi town, the size of the stone is 4 to 5 Ken ( 1 Ken = 6 feet ) square. ( 2-page. )

18, 19. Biobu Iwa. Screen Rock. ( 2-page. )

20, 21. Kananashi-gawa. The River Kananashi. There are many large willow trees growing on the bank, the scenery is very beautiful. ( 2-page. )

22, 23. Hayakawa. The river of that name. There is a ferry-boat on the main river, but travellers must wade the small branches running on both sides of the main river. ( 2-page. )

24, 25. Ura Fuji. The back of Fuji as seen from Koshu Province. ( Written on this page are poems on Fuji. ) The Dream Mountain is like a dream; it is much more beautiful than I thought. Though people say the “back of Fuji” yet it is very beautiful as seen from that side, and I regret very much they use the term “Ura-Fuji”. ( 2-page. )

26, 27. Place called Fujimaki; a fountain fed by a spring. ( Manuscript on the left is a poem. ( 2-page. )

28, 29. ( A steep road winding up the hill, with the back of Fuji seen over peaks of other mountains. ( 2-page. )

30, 31. General view of Takaozan Temple ( Shinto and Buddhist combined ). The details are named:

A) The main shrine, copper roof; the building is painted with cinnabar. B) The Cakudo, Picture Hall. C) Fence painted with cinnabar. D) Shoro; Bell Tower. E) Kagurado; Sacred Dancing Hall. F) Niomon; large Gate with Nio Images. G) Stone Pagoda. ( 2-page. )

32, 33. General view of Kashiozan Daizenji Temple ( Buddhist ).

A) Yakushido; Hall of Yakushi Niorai. B) Highway leading to Enoshima. C) Hojo; Chief Priest’s residence. D) Omon; Gate. ( 2-page. )

34, 35. Sakaori-no Miya ( Shinto Temple ) where the flint stone of Yamatodake-no Mikoto is in existence. ( 2-page. )

36. Zenkoji ( Temple ) Shinano Province. A) Hondo or principal hall. B) Large Bronze Buddha. C) Monasteries ( on the right side are the same ). D) Main Gate. E) Ordinary house. F) Stone pavement about 3 Cho long ( about 648 feet ).

37, 38. MS. Diary. [The translation of which was collated by Strange from versions by Mr Hogitaro Inada; Mr Shozo Kato and Mr Matsuki and follows here  ]:

Nov. 13^th: Fine weather. Made sumigaki ( black and white design ) for curtain. Was invited by Tsujiya for evening. The fish was good but sake and soba were bad, so speedily left at 10 o’clock. Wrote letter to Yedo.

( 14^th. Fine weather. Began to paint curtain, lonesome evening, was invited to Narumiya, the guest was the widow of Yeirakuya of Yokaichi. )

( Above was obtained from other manuscript. )

Nov. 15^th: Fine weather. The curtain design was done. Took rest from noon. In evening had sake at Yorozuya’s. Just after Yotsu ( 4 P.M. ) begun to stretch another curtain on frame ready for painting, and then again sake feast.

Nov. 16^th: Fine weather, then half cloudy. During morning worked a little on curtain. Had sake feast at Noumiya’s. With some company went to an eel restaurant with Mansada and Genyemon. In evening all went to theatre and saw two acts of play. This was day of great booze.

Nov. 17^th: Fine weather. Commenced to paint theatre’s signboard. The screen for Narumiya was done. Worked a little at night. From late evening begun to stretch curtain. Sake feast continued till daybreak, and stayed at his house. During the night, Yeihach’s wife had a child. [ Yeihachi was a friend of Hiroshige.]

Nov. 18^th: Fine weather. The signboard for theatre was finished with colouring. There was a great feast in evening.

Nov. 19^th: Fine weather. In morning finished all painting work. Wrote bill for the curtain. In afternoon had the parting feast with all our circle of friends. After the baggage was sent out from Narumiya’s and the Yorozuya [ inn ] in the evening drank sake was drunk till late night.

Nov. 20^th: Cloudy, snowed little. Left Iseya at about 7 A.M., accompanied Matsumi but parted on outskirts of Kofu, hurried on alone and at evening at 6 reached Kamihanasaki where stopped for night. This lodging was very good. A man from Shinano was companion for the night.

Nov. 21^st: Fine weather. Started about same hour as yesterday. Passed Inume and Shigaraki and rested. Sake and soup was poor. At Uyenohara took rest again, and took lunch. At Yose stopped for night at the Inariya Inn. Had to sleep with two other people as aiyado. One was an actor, Tsujiya Hyosuke. Heard the story of Ozawa who attempted a great crime at Uenohara.

Nov. 22^nd: Fine weather. Left Yose in morning at 8 o’clock with company of one aiyado of the night before. Took rest several times, drinking sake each time but all were bad. By dusk stopped at Matsumotoya front of Myojin shrine of Fuchu. Sake was very bad.

This may be the last such item to come onto the market.

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

Kyobashi with Tsukuda-jima in the background from the set Musashi hyakkei no uchi, the “One Hundred Views of Musashi” ( Musashi being the plain in which Tokyo lies ). The set was modelled on Hiroshige’s 100 Views of Edo but only 34 prints were ever produced by the publisher Kobayashi Tetsujiro in 1884/5.

Superb impression of the first edition. Perfect colour and condition with extensive mica. Signed Shinseiro Kiyochika ga.

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

The lanterns of Hommonji Temple in Ikegami from the set Musashi hyakkei no uchi, the “One Hundred Views of Musashi” ( Musashi being the plain in which Tokyo lies ). The set was modelled on Hiroshige’s 100 Views of Edo but only 34 prints were ever produced by the publisher Kobayashi Tetsujiro in 1884/5.

Superb impression of the first edition. Perfect colour and condition. Signed Shinseiro Kiyochika ga.

                       

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

Rain over the paulownia plantation at Akasaka from the set Musashi hyakkei no uchi, the “One Hundred Views of Musashi” ( Musashi being the plain in which Tokyo lies ). The set was modelled on Hiroshige’s 100 Views of Edo but only 34 prints were ever produced by the publisher Kobayashi Tetsujiro in 1884/5.

Superb impression of the first edition. Perfect colour and condition. Signed Shinseiro Kiyochika ga.

                              

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

The Sumida River and Suijin Forest under heavy rain, a moon-lute in the foreground, from the set Musashi hyakkei no uchi, the “One Hundred Views of Musashi” ( Musashi being the plain in which Tokyo lies ). The set was modelled on Hiroshige’s 100 Views of Edo but only 34 prints were ever produced by the publisher Kobayashi Tetsujiro in 1884/5

Superb impression of the first edition. Perfect colour and condition. Signed Shinseiro Kiyochika ga.

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

Fallen snow at Fukugawa in Benten Province from the set Musashi hyakkei no uchi, the “One Hundred Views of Musashi” ( Musashi being the plain in which Tokyo lies ). The set was modelled on Hiroshige’s 100 Views of Edo but only 34 prints were ever produced by the publisher Kobayashi Tetsujiro in 1884/5.

Superb impression of the first edition. Perfect colour and condition with extensive mica. Signed Shinseiro Kiyochika ga.

                            

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

Snow at Suidobashi from the set Musashi hyakkei no uchi, the “One Hundred Views of Musashi” ( Musashi being the plain in which Tokyo lies ). The set was modelled on Hiroshige’s 100 Views of Edo but only 34 prints were ever produced by the publisher Kobayashi Tetsujiro in 1884/5.

Superb impression of the first edition. Perfect colour and condition with extensive mica. Signed Shinseiro Kiyochika ga.

                        

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

Fishing on Ayase River, Sengenji Temple in the distance from the set Musashi hyakkei no uchi, the “One Hundred Views of Musashi” ( Musashi being the plain in which Tokyo lies ). The set was modelled on Hiroshige’s 100 Views of Edo but only 34 prints were ever produced by the publisher Kobayashi Tetsujiro in 1884/5.

Superb impression of the first edition. Perfect colour and condition with extensive mica. Signed Shinseiro Kiyochika ga.

                      

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

Fireworks over Ryogoku  from the set Musashi hyakkei no uchi, the “One Hundred Views of Musashi” ( Musashi being the plain in which Tokyo lies ). The set was modelled on Hiroshige’s 100 Views of Edo but only 34 prints were ever produced by the publisher Kobayashi Tetsujiro in 1884/5.

Superb impression of the first edition. Perfect colour and condition with extensive mica. Signed Shinseiro Kiyochika ga.

status: sold

Kobayashi KIYOCHIKA (1847-1915)

Full moon at Tamagawa illuminating dyers at work in the river from the set Musashi hyakkei no uchi, the “One Hundred Views of Musashi” ( Musashi being the plain in which Tokyo lies ). The set was modelled on Hiroshige’s 100 Views of Edo but only 34 prints were ever produced by the publisher Kobayashi Tetsujiro in 1884/5.

Superb impression of the first edition. Perfect colour and condition with extensive mica. Signed Shinseiro Kiyochika ga.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

Fuji from the Tea Plantation of Katakura in Suruga Province from Hokusai’s most famous series: Fugaku Sanji-rokkei, the “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji”. The set of 46 prints published by Eijudo c 1830-32. This design comes from the ten supplementary prints added, the so-called ura-Fuji ( “Fuji from the other side” ).

Extremely good, early impression. Black outline as always. ( Only the first 36 have dark blue outlines in early states. ) Very good colour. One or two minor marks. Slight trimming and slight centre fold, otherwise a very nice example of this design. Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu hitsu. ( There is no known impression with publisher’s mark or censor’s seal. )

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

A night view of Monkey Street, Saruwaka-cho, from The Hundred Views of Edo published Dragon 9, 1856, by Uoya Eikichi. This was the theatre district and the perspective and shadows makes this one of the most striking images from the set.

Very fine impression, colour and condition. The first edition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Tsukudajima hatsu kakko, “The First Cuckoo at Tsukudajima Island” from Hiroshige’s first major landscape set of 10 prints with title Toto Meisho published by Shoeido c 1831-2. This is the rare first state: with ochre border; graded blue on water; and with the publisher’s name and address in right margin.

Fine impression and colour. Extremely light centre fold. Very full margins. ( The publisher’s name and address is often trimmed on right, eg even the Pulverer impression pl 6, Hiroshige, Matthi Forrer, 1997. ) Very good condition. Signed Ichiryusai Hiroshige ga.

 

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Numazu from the Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido. The set published by Hoeido and Senkakudo c1833-4. One of the finest designs from the set and the only moon scene. Shows Buddhist pilgrims entering the village. This area was famous for its Forest of a Thousand Pines which stretched along the seashore.

Fine impression. Fine colour. Fine, impeccable condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

An extremely rare chuban triptych from a set of the Four Seasons, this being “Autumn”. See Kuniyoshi, Juzo Suzuki, Tokyo, 1992, which shows all four from the set, nos 233-236. Published by Arita-ya Kiyoyemon, c1845.

Extremely fine impression, colour and condition. Signed Cho-o-ro Kuniyoshi ga.

 

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

A rare triptych showing three bijin on the beach at Enoshima with title: Enoshima Benzaiten kaicho nagisa, which implies they are there to venerate Benten ( one of the Seven Lucky Gods ) whose shrine is at Enoshima. Published by Yamadaya Shobei, c1849.

Very good impression and colour. Slight creases. Small edge repair, otherwise good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Night snow at Kambara from the Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido. The set published by Hoeido and Senkakudo c1833-4. Together with Shono, the masterpice from the set and widely reproduced.

Good to very good impression with the red seals still crisp. Very good colour. Very slight centre fold only perceptible top and bottom otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: sold

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 ). The first edition and the only example I have ever seen of this fine design. Another example illustrated in Ukiyo-e Art, Number Eighteen, The Memorial Exhibition Of Hiroshige, The Japan Ukiyo-e Society, 1968, no. 23.

Superb impression with every embellishment of a deluxe first state. Perfect colour with deluxe red on cartouche. Trimmed a little into seal in left margin otherwise perfect. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Saijo in Iyo Province from the Famous Places in the Sixty-Odd Provinces. Published by Koshimuraya Heisuke, Hare 9 ( 1855 ). First edition.

Superb impression of first edition. Perfect colour. Light album backing and two small blue spots, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: available

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”. Published by Uoei, Sheep 9 ( 1859 ).

Very good impression, colour and, apart from one small spot, very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Kwannon Temple, Abumon in Bingo Province from the Famous Places in the Sixty-Odd Provinces. Published by Koshimuraya Heisuke, Ox 12 ( 1853 ). A variant first edition to Pulverer copy. One of the most beautiful designs from the set.

Superb impression. Fine colour and 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. This is the rare first state: before the blue sky block was replaced with another.

Fine impression. Remargined on three sides but with black border intact. Otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

A triptych, “Moon”, from a series of “Snow, Moon, Flower”. ( The screen’s half-moon shape here representing the moon. ) Another nice touch are the shadows cast by the figures. Published by Dansendo 1848. One of Hiroshige’s best triptych designs.

Extremely good early impression; fine colour. Full size. Very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE  (1797-1858)

Heavy wind and rain in Yamabushidani, Mimasaka Province from the Famous Places in the Sixty-Odd Provinces. Published by Koshimuraya Heisuke and dated Ox 12 (1853). The best design after the Whirlpool at Naruto. The very rare first edition.

Very fine impression; fine colour. Minor backed edge wormage, otherwise fine condition. After this first edition there are numerous variant states. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE  (1797-1858)

Evening snow , Asukayama from the set: Eight Views of the Suburbs of Edo. Published by Kikakudo c 1837-8. One of Hiroshige's earliest and finest sets. The first private issue of these prints (for the poet Taihaido) had three poems. This state has two. Extremely rare.

Fine impression and colour. Slight centre fold and trimmed close. Extensive splashed gofun. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE  (1797-1858)

The Whirlpool at Naruto, Awa Province, from the Famous Places in the Sixty-Odd Provinces. Published by Koshimuraya Heisuke and dated Hare 9 (1855). The best design from the set.

Very good impression; good colour. Minor discoloration, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE  (1797-1858)

Heavy snow with geisha in front of the torii in the Gion district of Kyoto. From the fine early set of ten prints: Famous Places in Kyoto, published by Eisendo c1835.  The first edition of this set has the publisher's mark and kiwame seal in blue in right margin. (There are also two first edition states of this design - one with gradation on the roofs. the other without. See Suzuki, Utagawa Hiroshige, nos 106/7.) This impression, although the second edition, is still much sought after and rare.

Very good impression and colour. Faint centre fold, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE  (1797-1858)

A mist scene showing Oyashiro Shinto Temple, Izumo Province from the Famous Places in the Sixty-Odd Provinces. Published by Koshimuraya Heisuke and dated Ox12 (1853)

Good impression; very good colour. Minor marks on bottom margin, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

Poem by Fujiwara no Michinobu Ason ( 972-994 ) from the set Hyakunin isshu oba ga etoki, “The Hundred Poems Explained by the Wet Nurse”. Published by Nishimuraya Yohachi ( the first five ) and Ise Sanjiro ( as here ) the next twenty two, c late 1830s. This poem tells of a lover’s despair at having to part from his beloved at daybreak.

Very fine impression of the first edition: On subsequent editions the characters on the lantern ( which read “Iseya” ) beneath the kago are changed; the break top left of title cartouche shows strongly, and pigments are used which do not oxidise on the path and background. Very fine colour. Slight stain bottom right corner, otherwise fine. Signed Zen Hokusai manji.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Hira no bosetsu, “Evening Snow on Mount Hira” from the first Omi Hakkei set published by Eisendo and Hoeido, c1834. One of Hiroshige’s best designs.

Fine early impression with the mountain printed. Fine gradation and colour. On full size totally untrimmed paper. Near perfect condition. ( Later editions add green to the colour scheme: See E F Strange, Hiroshige, Cassell & Co, 1925, colour pl. op.p.172. ) Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

The great lantern at the Kinryuzan Temple, Asakusa, in snow. Asakusa Kinryuzan from The Hundred Views of Edo, Meisho Edo hyakkei.  The set published by Uoya Eikichi with this design dated Ansei lll/7 (1856). This is the exceptionally rare first edition. The best way of discerning this (apart, obviously, from the quality of impression) is that only the first edition uses the vegetable pigment beni on the lantern and on the door to the left: All subsequent editions mixed in red lead to give a brighter colour (which usually oxidizes).  (The temple still stands and looks not unlike Hiroshige's depiction.)

Fine impression and colour, with mica added. Very small expertly repaired wormage bottom right margin otherwise fine. Seals intact. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

Joshu Ushibori from Fugaku sanju-rokkei, the "Thirty-Six views of Mount Fuji". The set published by Eijudo c1829-33. Probably the most difficult design from the set to find in early impression. (There exist first printings entirely in blue, but they are extremely rare.)

Very good early impression (blue outline) with very good colour. Slight centre fold, otherwise very good condition. Signed Zen Hokusai Iitsu ga

status: sold

Ichiyusai HIROSHIGE II (1826-1869)

A rainy evening. Akasaka, Kiribataka.  The substitute print for design 48 by Hiroshige I from "The One Hundred Views of Edo" published by Uoei between 1856 and 1859 (this being Sheep 6, 1859). A lovely design and superior to the print it replaced.

Very good impression, colour and condition. Signed "The second" Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Keisai EISEN (1790-1848)

Early morning snow on Nihonbashi. The first design from Kisokaido rokujukyu-tsugi, "The Sixty-Nine Stations of the Kiso Highway" published c1836 by Takeuchi and Hoeido.  The extremely rare first edition with rising sun, publisher's name on umbrella and signature: There are at least three later states of this design.

Superb impression and colour.  One very small backed wormhole, otherwise very fine condition with extra large margins and complete seal at left.  Signed Eisen ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Beauties and snow on the Sumida River.  The winter scene from a set of four triptychs of famous places in the four seasons.  Published by Marujin, 1848-49. Considered to be Hiroshige's finest design in this genre.  Illustrated on covers of Eight Hundred Years Of Japanese Printmaking, Museum Of Art Carnegie Institute, 1977.

Very good impression with perfect colour, Full size and matching. Original backing sheets, Fine condition.  Signed Hiroshige ga. (There were some cracks in the blocks for this design and they  appear on every known impression.) 

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Tsuchiyama from The Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido. The set published 1833-34 by Takenouchi Magohachi and Tsuruya Kiemon, Shows a daimyo's procession crossing a stream in heavy rain.

Very good early impression. Very good colour, Small paper flaw near left edge otherwise very good condition,. Signed Hiroshige ga

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Kambara, Station 16, from The Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido, generally known as the Reisho Tokaido. Published c1850-51 by Maruya Seijiro.

Extremely fine first edition with the deluxe red pigment in cartouche. Fine colour and condition with extra paper on right for publisher's seal. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797 - 1858)

Hakone tochiba no zue, "Hakone Spa" from the set Honcho Meisho, "Views of Our Homeland". An excessively rare set published by Fujihiko, c mid 1830s.  I have never noted another impression of this design for sale.  The complete set, which contains some of Hiroshige's rarest masterpieces, is illustrated in Utagawa Hiroshige, Juzo Suzuki, nos 438 - 452.

Fine impression, colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

 

status: sold

Keisai EISEN (1790-1848)

The Ina River Bridge, Nojiri from the series Kisokaido rokujukyu-tsugi, "The Sixty-Nine Stations of the Kiso Highway", published c.1836 by Takeuchi and Hoeido. Extremely rare first state of first edition of this fine design: Only the earliest edition has the geese above and beneath the bridge, the extra peaks in the same area and to the far top left. Also the signature is only found on earliest state. See Lane, Images from the Floating World, no.194 (A-B), p.190.

Very good impression and colour. Very slight centrefold otherwise good condition. Signed Keisai ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Aki, Itsukushima Sairei-no zu. Aki is the old name for Hiroshima. The beautiful Torii of Itsukushima Shrine at Miyajima is considered to be one of the three best views in Japan. Published Ox12 (1853) by Koshimuraya Heisuke from the Famous Places in the Sixty-Odd Provinces.

Fine, very early impression. Fine coloured and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

The Urami Falls, Mt. Nikko, Shimotsuke Province, Shimotsuke, Nikkosan Urami no taki from the Famous Places in the Sixty-Odd Provinces. Published Ox 8 (1853) by Koshimuraya Heisuke.

Fine, very early impression but not the earliest of all (see Pulverer impression). However, this is one of those cases where the earliest is not the preferred state: The Pulverer copy has the waterfall printed solid blue whereas this impression has the water blind-printed and the gradation on the side making for a more beautiful composition. Fine colour. Minor soil, otherwise very good condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

The temple compound if the Akiba Shrine, Ukiji, Ukiji Akiba no keidai, from The Hundred Views of Famous Spots in Edo. Published Snake 8 (1857) by Uoya Eikichi.

Fine impression and colour. Minor mark au verso left margin, otherwise fine condition. This is the earliest edition with the break in the character "eight" in the date seal top margin. The figure sketching on the verandah, bottom left, is supposed to be Hiroshige. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

Fulling cloth beneath a full moon. Toi Tama-qawa in Settsu Province from the set Six Tama Rivers. One of the two best designs from the set. Published circa early 1830s.

Fine impression and colour. Minor repair extreme top edge, otherwise fine condition. Signed Hiroshige ga. A beautiful print.

status: available

 Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

The beach of the Dancing Girl in Harima Province from Rokuju-yo shu meisho zue, "Famous Places in the Sixty-Odd Provinces". The set published by Koshihei between 1853-1856.

Very good early impression showing strong woodgrain. Fine colour and condition. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

A chuban triptych showing three beauties relaxing at Takanawa from a set of Eight Views of Edo. Published by Joshuya Kinzo c.1849-50. (Tamba no.146.)

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

 

status: sold

Katsushika HOKUSAI (1760-1849)

Kanagawa Oki Nami-ura from the "Thirty-six Views of Fuji". The set of forty-six prints published between 1823 and 1829 by Eijudo. Probably the most eulogised Japanese print and the masterpiece from the set as well as being one of the world's great graphic images.

Medium impression. Blue outline. Very full size. Signed Zen Hokusai I-itsu hitsu.

status: available

Utagawa KUNISADA (1786-1865)

An early and apparently unrecorded chuban triptych showing, on first sheet, an awabi diver near Enoshima surfacing to supply a party on a balcony, far left. Published c.1810s.

Expert repairs in sky, otherwise good impression, colour and condition. Unsigned.

status: available

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797-1858)

A rare complete triptych hanshita-e (original drawing for a print). Presumably never published. A procession at Akasaka (?).

Signed Hiroshige ga on first sheet.