The Story Behind these Hiroshige Prints

Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858) was born in Edo (Tokyo), Japan and is known as one of the last masters of the ukiyo-e period. His father was a local fire warden who passed his post onto Hiroshige at the age of 12 after his mother’s passing. Unfortunately, his father also passed away the next year leaving Hiroshige as an orphan. His interest in art drew him to apply as a pupil under the ukiyo-e master Utagawa Toyohiro. As a student of Toyohiro, Hiroshige developed a sophisticated style that evolved into his mastery of landscape art prints later in his life.

As with most ukiyo-e artists, there are few recordings of the details of Hiroshige’s life. He published his first illustration book at the age of 21, using the name Ichiyusai Hiroshige. Due to his varied experiences, he gathered inspiration from the impressionist Shijo genre and the Chinese-inspired Kano style. His first period of depicting landscapes was between 1830 and 1844, in which he romanticised beautiful Japanese vistas such as his Full Moon Over Mountain Landscape piece.

Over his lifetime, it is believed that Hiroshige produced over 5,000 prints and that over 10,000 woodblock copies were generated. His tranquil approach highlighted the primary elements of a composition, allowing simplicity and modesty to shine. Many of his scenes portrayed a moonlit landscape with charming features, such as New Year’s Eve Foxfires. Hiroshige’s life was dedicated to his art and although he had modest training, his effortless method nurtured a sense of intimacy and humanity that built a connection with his audience.