Honderd beroemde gezichten op Edo

About this artwork

Purchased with the support of the Vereniging Rembrandt and the Ministerie van Onderwijs, Kunsten en Wetenschappen

Art Historical Context

**Honderd beroemde gezichten op Edo** (One Hundred Famous Views of), created by the renowned ukiyo-e master Utagawa Hiroshige in April 1857, captures the vibrant spirit of Edo-period Japan—today's Tokyo. This nishiki-e, or "brocade print," is a stunning example of multicolored woodblock, a technique that revolutionized Japanese art by layering vivid hues through intricate carving and precise registration. Measuring 361 × 245 mm, its oban format made it ideal for display in homes, immersing viewers in the city's iconic landscapes, seasonal beauties, and daily life. Hiroshige's genius lies in his atmospheric depictions, blending bold colors with subtle gradients to evoke mood and movement—hallmarks of the ukiyo-e ("pictures of the floating world") tradition. This series, one of his final masterpieces, reflects late Edo prosperity amid encroaching Western influences, preserving a fading urban idyll. Acquired with support from the Vereniging Rembrandt and the Dutch Ministry of Education, Arts and Sciences, this print highlights global appreciation for Japanese woodblock artistry, bridging cultures in museum collections today.