The artwork titled “76 Bamboo Quay by Kyōbashi Bridge” is a woodblock print created by the celebrated ukiyo-e artist Hiroshige in the year 1857. This piece is part of the renowned series “One Hundred Famous Views of Edo,” and it falls within the landscape and marina genre, rendered in the distinct stylistic approach characteristic of the ukiyo-e art movement.
The artwork presents a scene that is both tranquil and bustling with activity. The foreground is dominated by the strong, curving lines of the Kyōbashi Bridge, sweeping across the composition and providing a striking contrast to the straight, vertical lines of the bamboo quay in the background. Under the bridge, the calm water carries soft reflections, with a solitary boatman navigating his craft through the serene river. Above, the bridge is populated with figures going about their daily activities. On the right side, a bright full moon peeks through the sky, casting a gentle luminescence over the scene.
Despite the age of the print, the colors remain vibrant, showcasing the technical skill involved in the creation of these layered woodblock prints. The subtle gradation from the darker blues at the top to the lighter hues near the horizon line imbues the artwork with depth. Red seals and characters, likely bearing information related to the publisher, series, and artist, are present in prominent positions, respecting traditional ukiyo-e conventions.
Hiroshige’s mastery of composition and keen observation of everyday life infuse the artwork with a timeless quality, as he captures both the urban rhythm of Edo (Tokyo) and the beauty of the natural world coexisting in harmony.
