Hōsen Temple at Nakano (Nakano Hōsen-ji)
Tokyo: Fuji-kei, 1861. A full-colour woodblock print on lightweight paper hinge-mounted with tape on cream-coloured card. The print measures 34.5cm x 23.5 cm and is housed in a cream and red folder with a window on the front cover. A sheet of acetate is loosely inserted in the folder to protect the artwork. Light foxing (or possibly glue marks) on the top edge of the print, very light wear on the upper part of the right-hand edge; otherwise a near-fine print with strong colour. Hōsen Temple at Nakano (Nakano Hōsen-ji) is one 49 woodblock prints in Hiroshige II's series Views of Famous Places in Edo (Edo meishō zue). It was created by the artist and engraved by Horikane Horichō.
The print depicts a three-tiered pagoda standing amid tall, majestic trees. Several figures can be seen wandering through the grounds of this serene forest setting.
Utagawa Hiroshige II (1826-1869) was the most successful pupil of master woodblock artist Hiroshige I, so much so that for many years the work of the pupil was confused with that of the master. In the period this print was executed, Hiroshige II specialised in landscapes based on the later works of Hiroshige I and created a number of series featuring pleasing views and images of nature.
The print includes the aratame seal of the Censor Tsutaya Kichizo. Item #4973
Price (AUD): $590.00