Utagawa (Ando) Hiroshige, "Station 52: Kusatsu"

Kusatsu in Shiga Prefecture sits on the Kusatsu River, a tributary of Lake Biwa. In this beautiful composition, ferries shuttle passengers across the river and lake to and from Otsu station (#53). The mountains and hills in the background is a spectacular addition to the overall composition.

Hiroshige's works from his vertically oriented series, "The 53 Stations of the Tokaido Road," contains some of the artist's most recognizable designs. Completed in 1855, this series of works is the culmination of the artist's lifelong affinity for the people and scenery inhabiting this important travel route. 

Series: The 53 Stations of the Tokaido Road (Upright Tokaido)
Date 1855
Size: Oban
Publisher: Tsutaya Kichizo (Koeido)
Condition: Light scuffs, otherwise excellent color and condition
Frame Shown: 16" x 24" x 1/2", Classic Wood, Ebony, White Mat

Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858) is the most important Japanese artist to emerge from Edo period ukiyo-e. Hiroshige is a widely recognized master of Japanese woodblock prints whose works have had a tremendous influence on artistic currents throughout the world. His woodblock prints are highly coveted by collectors and museums around the world.