100 Views of Edo # 13 Deluxe Edition by Ando Hiroshige

Artist: Ando Utagawa Hiroshige (1787-1858)

Woodblock Prints Title: 100 Views of Edo # 13 Shitaya Hirokôji

1st Publication: September 1856

Size: 13-1/2 x 8-5/8 + Margins as shown

Date of this edition: September 1856

Publisher: Uoya Eikichi

Carver: Hori-Sen

Condition: A couple of pin holes, one tiny repaired area in the left margin. Great Colors, Excellent to near mint overall condition.

Notes: This is an extremely rare first edition, Deluxe edition with Mica in the sky, the floor and the building area. Usually, this technique was reserved for good customer or prestigious people, as the technology was fairly new, expensive and difficult to master. Great print, great colors, splendid wood marks from the original block, mica, a real masterpiece from this 100 views of Edo series.

More about this print: This print depicts a fascinating array of customs. In the immediate foreground are three samurai, identifiable by their double swords but unusual for their Western pants, a recent import popular among younger samurai.

The identical parasols, uneven procession, and diverse dress of the women ahead mark them as a group of merchant-class tourists. They are on their way to view the cherry blossoms hinted at by the rosy-tinged cloud in the distance.

Pictures: Pictures are taken outdoor, in the shade, to reflect true colors, without any enhancements of any kind. The last picture is taken indoor, with a light behind the print, to reveal the exact paper grain, holes if any, or other possible flaws.