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

Utagawa Hiroshige’s “Oni, Peacock, Shishi, Cat and Insect” is a captivating scene that brings together a diverse array of subjects, reflecting Hiroshige's ability to combine intricate details with a sense of storytelling.

1. Oni (Demon):
- The Oni is depicted with menacing features typical of Japanese folklore—wild eyes, tusks, and a fierce expression. His reddish skin and exaggerated muscularity give him an otherworldly, intimidating presence.

2. Peacock:
- The peacock, resplendent in vibrant hues of blue and green with elaborate, iridescent feathers unfurled in full display, adds a touch of exotic beauty and grace. The bird stands poised and dignified, its fan-like tail feathers occupying a significant portion of the canvas.

3. Shishi (Lion-Dog):
- The shishi, or mythical lion-dog, showcases traditional carvings, both ferocious and protective. Hiroshige’s detailing captures its luxurious mane and powerful stance, often symbolizing guardianship or protection in Japanese culture.

4. Cat:
- The domestic cat is depicted with playful curiosity, likely in a natural, relaxed pose. Its interaction with its surroundings or possibly with the insect infuses a sense of whimsical domestic charm.

5. Insect:
- The insect, possibly a butterfly or a dragonfly, is delicately rendered with close attention to realist detailing, floating gracefully in the air. It represents the ephemeral beauty of nature, a theme reminiscent of the ukiyo-e spirit capturing fleeting moments.

6. Background and Composition:
- The background likely integrates elements of nature, perhaps a garden or an open landscape, maintaining a balance between the figures and their setting. The composition cleverly blends realism with the fantastical, an immediate engagement for viewers, drawing them into a world where mythical beings and real creatures coexist.

Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858):
- Hiroshige, one of the last great ukiyo-e masters, is best known for his landscapes, such as those in his renowned series "The Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō." His works typically capture the transient beauty of nature, changing seasons, and bustling life in Edo (modern-day Tokyo).

Original Painting:
- The original painting "Oni, Peacock, Shishi, Cat and Insect by the Craftsman Ichida Shoshichiro of Naniwa" likely exists within a private collection or may be housed in a museum focusing on Edo-period art, such as the Tokyo National Museum or the British Museum, which possess extensive collections of ukiyo-e prints and paintings. Specific details regarding the painting's current residence may require further research into auction histories or museum acquisitions.

- Career and Movement:
- This painting fits into the Edo period’s artistic milieu, focusing on combining traditional Japanese mythological themes with natural beauty. Hiroshige's ability to juxtapose the ethereal with daily life showcases his knack for balancing myth and reality.
- Hiroshige's oeuvre often included depictions of animals and mythological characters, reflecting both a deep respect for nature and a fascination with folklore. This painting underscores these themes, blending mythical, domestic, and natural elements seamlessly.

1. Integration of Shinto and Buddhist Imagery:
- The presence of the shishi (often seen as guardians of sacred spaces) and the oni (demons from folklore), alongside natural and domestic figures, provides a rich tapestry of cultural and religious symbolism.

2. Detailed Polychrome Application:
- The painting’s vibrant colors and intricate details highlight Hiroshige’s refined technique with woodblock printing, suggesting a balance between artistic expression and technical proficiency.

3. Narrative Depth:
- The combination of characters implies a layered narrative—wherein each subject tells its story yet remains part of a coherent whole. It's a characteristic feature of Hiroshige’s ability to create complex, interconnected visual stories.

In conclusion, Utagawa Hiroshige's "Oni, Peacock, Shishi, Cat and Insect by the Craftman Ichida Shoshichiro of Naniwa" presents a beautiful amalgamation of mythological and natural subjects, revealing the artist's versatility and profound cultural influences. The painting is a testament to Hiroshige's mastery of the ukiyo-e form, skillfully capturing the interplay between the fantastical and