The artwork entitled “77 Inari Bridge and the Minato Shrine in Teppōzu” is a refined woodblock print created by the esteemed artist Hiroshige in 1857. Functioning as a part of the Ukiyo-e art movement, this piece serves as one of the celebrated visuals within “One Hundred Famous Views of Edo” series. It employs landscape and marina as its genre, encapsulating the essence of a specific locality with a visually compelling approach.
The artwork exquisitely delineates a scenic vista through the structural framework of Inari Bridge. Foregrounded are the bold, vertical and diagonal lines of wooden beams, which lend a distinct architectural element to the composition. Through these beams, one discerns a tranquil waterway serenaded by bridge and boats, conveying a sense of daily life and commerce of the Edo period. In the backdrop, the artwork reveals a beautifully understated depiction of Mount Fuji, a revered symbol in Japanese culture. The juxtaposition of man-made elements and the majestic natural landmark alludes to the harmonious coexistence of civilization and nature.
Hiroshige’s skillful use of color gradients is evident in the sky, transitioning from a deep blue to a gentle pinkish hue, suggesting either the break of dawn or the approach of dusk. This atmospheric element adds a temporal dimension to the work, invoking contemplations on the passage of time. The intricate detailing of the built and natural environments, combined with the play of perspective, imbues the artwork with a sense of depth and realism that is characteristic of Hiroshige’s venerated style.
