Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

"Autumn at Akiba Shrine in Ukiji" is an enthralling woodblock print from the famed Edo period series "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo" by Utagawa Hiroshige. The composition captures a panoramic perspective of the Akiba Shrine nestled amidst the vibrant hues of autumn. From an elevated vantage point, the scene is painted in rich tones dominated by the fiery reds and warm yellows of the maple and ginkgo trees in their autumnal glory.

In the foreground, a winding path, flanked by clusters of multicolored foliage, leads the viewer’s eye towards the shrine. The roof of the shrine, subtly emerging from behind the trees, is depicted with exquisite detail, featuring the typical Japanese architectural style of the period. Hiroshige masterfully conveys a sense of peace and reverence, typical of a sacred site in the serene countryside.

To the left, two figures in traditional kimonos ascend the path, embodying the contemplative spirit of pilgrims. The expansive blue sky forms the backdrop, transitioning into delicate gradients that suggest a crisp, clear day in autumn. Godly light filters through the canopy, casting intricate shadows on the ground, adding depth and dynamism to the composition.

Information About the Original Painting and Artist:

1. Utagawa Hiroshige:
- Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858) was one of the last great ukiyo-e masters—a genre of art that flourished in Japan from the 17th through 19th centuries. Renowned for his landscape prints and depictions of the natural world, Hiroshige’s work significantly influenced Western impressionism.

2. Series Context:
- "Autumn at Akiba Shrine in Ukiji" is part of the series "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo" (Meisho Edo Hyakkei), created between 1856 and 1858. This series is considered a high point in Hiroshige’s artistic career, showcasing scenic urban and rural views around the city of Edo (modern-day Tokyo). The series reflects the cultural and geographical richness of Edo during a time of extensive urban development.

3. Artistic Movements:
- Hiroshige's work fits into the broader context of the ukiyo-e movement, a genre that illustrated urban lifestyle, theatrical actors, beautiful women, and landscapes, contributing to the popular culture of Edo-period Japan. His use of perspective, vibrant color palette, and innovative compositions was influential, laying the foundation for landscape artworks in Japanese art.

4. Original Work Location:
- As a woodblock print rather than a singular painting, multiple impressions of "Autumn at Akiba Shrine in Ukiji" exist. These prints are held in various esteemed collections worldwide. Some notable repositories include:
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA.
- The British Museum, London, UK.
- The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, USA.

5. Noteworthy Details:
- Hiroshige’s attention to seasonal changes is epitomized in this print, reflecting the transient beauty celebrated in Japanese culture.
- The print represents an interplay of human activity and nature, characteristic of Hiroshige's aim to depict harmonious coexistence.
- The immaculate brushwork and meticulous stamping techniques showcase the artist's exceptional craftsmanship and his collaborative work with skilled block carvers and printers.

"Autumn at Akiba Shrine in Ukiji" remains an enduring testament to Hiroshige's ingenuity and timeless appeal, encapsulating the splendor of Edo-period landscapes through an intricate blend of artistry and narrative.