Hiroshige 広重: Original Fuji, Meguro 目黒元不二

Artist: Utagawa Hiroshige 広重 (1797-1858)
Title: Original Fuji, Meguro 目黒元不二

Series: One Hundred Famous Views of Edo 名所江戸百景 Meisho Edo Hyakkei
Date: 1857

View of the “original” mini-Fuji, constructed in 1812. These replicas were built in the late Edo period as a way for everyone to be able to enjoy climbing Fuji-san, including the elderly and children. This one offered a spectacular view on a bluff overlooking the Meguro River, with the real Fuji rising splendidly in the distance. We see two men walking the path, and small pine trees line the path that were planted at the time of the construction. Several visitors are enjoying tea at a tea stall at the foot of the replica. This example features a spring green color to the grass, as the work is dated the 4th month. The cherry trees planted for the enjoyment of patrons also seem to be in bloom, their branches a light pink. Some versions have the trees looking to be in autumn orange, and some later versions in a very bright pink. 

Condition: Very good impression and condition. Very good/good color. Center fold.

Dimensions: ôban (36.5 x 24.6 cm)
Publisher: Uoya Eikichi
Literature: Henry Smith II: “Hiroshige’s One Hundred Famous Views of Edo”, plate 25. See the collection of the British Museum, Chazen Museum, Honolulu Academy of Art, MFA, Brooklyn Museum.  Signature: Hiroshige ga

SKU: HIR562