Parody of a daimyo procession

Art Historical Context

In the vibrant world of Edo-period Japan (160–1868), Uawa Toyohiro's *Parody of a Daimyo Procession* (c. 1805/07) captures the playful spirit of ukiyo-e, the "pictures of the floating world" genre. Toyohiro, a master the Utagawa school and mentor to Hiroshige, this humorous woodblock print series as a satirical take on the grand processions of daimyo—powerful feudal lords whose elaborately regulated parades through city streets symbolized status and authority. By exaggerating the pomp with whimsical twists, Toyohiro poked fun at societal hierarchies, delighting viewers with lighthearted commentary on everyday extravagance. This artwork consists of color woodblock prints, a revolutionary technique that allowed for mass production of vivid, multi-sheet compositions like this 12-panel panorama (measuring 23.5 × 102.9 cm when complete). Here, we display six of the sheets (Art Institute of Chicago, 1928.391-396), showcasing Toyohiro's skillful use of bold colors, dynamic compositions, and fine line work carved into woodblocks by artisans. These prints not only highlight ukiyo-e's cultural role in democratizing art but also reflect the era's fascination with urban life and satire, making high-society spectacle accessible and entertaining for all. A charming glimpse into Japan's artistic golden age!

About the Artist

Utagawa Toyohiro · 1763–1828

Utagawa Toyohiro (1763–1828) was a Japanese ukiyo-e artist and painter who founded a major branch of the Utagawa school and is best remembered as the teacher of Utagawa Hiroshige, one of the greatest landscape print designers in Japanese art history. Born in Edo (present-day Tokyo), he studied under Utagawa Toyoharu, the founder of the Utagawa school, who was noted for introducing Western perspect...