Yoshitoshi: Kanasugi Bridge in Shibaura (Sold)

Artist: Tsukioka Yoshitoshi
Title: Kanasugi Bridge in Shiabura
Series: Famous Places Along the Tokaido (Tokaido meisho fukei)
Date: 1863

An elaborate black standard is raised high by an unseen member of the shogun’s procession, standing perfectly vertical and high above the heads of the bannermen. We see two  rows of the shogun’s men marching with mathematical precision in a line across the lower portion of the design. Next to the elaborate black standard (comprised of feathers?) we see what looks like a fluffy white standard (fur?), ringed with hanging banners in red and green.  This series was commissioned by the authorities to promote the shogun’s procession from Edo to Kyoto in 1863. Sixteen of the major print artists of the time were enlisted for this large project, from the youthful Yoshitoshi to the elderly Kunisada. As usual, Yoshitoshi’s designs stand out, even though he was only in his early 20s. The shogun lost power not long after this expensive show of force.

Condition: Very good impression, color and condition. Minor smudges. Unbacked.
Dimensions: ôban (35.5 x 24.5 cm)
Publisher: Kakumotoya Kinjiro
Literature: Keyes 138.10. See MFA for the full series.
Signature: Ikkeisai Yoshitoshi ga

SKU: YOCS067