Yui
1855
Travelers along Japan's historic Tokaido road face a rugged landscape in this vibrant 1855 print by Utagawa Hiroshige. Porters hard at work cross a river on makeshift wooden bridges—two men struggle under the weight of a red palanquin (a luxury sedan chair), while others balance heavy baskets on shoulder poles. Looming behind them is the formidable Satta Pass, a steep cliffside path famous for its breathtaking views and dangerous footing. The reddish sky suggests either a weary sunset or an early dawn start, highlighting the endless journey between Edo and Kyoto. Hiroshige revisited this famous route late in his career, capturing both the grit of the laborers and the serene beauty of the coast.
- Technique
- Woodblock print
- Material
- Paper
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