Vibrant Woodblock Prints Traverse a Bygone Japan in 'Hiroshige: Artist of the Open Road'

Utagawa Hiroshige was a pivotal artist during the Edo Period, which faced significant changes towards the end of the 19th century. His exhibition at The British Museum showcases his vibrant woodblock prints, depicting various locations in Japan, including iconic landscapes and everyday life. Hiroshige's art not only represents aesthetic beauty but also served to comfort and connect with the society during a transformative time as Japan began to confront outside influences. This exhibition marks the first solo showcase of Hiroshige's work in London in over 25 years.

As Japan confronted the encroaching outside world, Hiroshige's calm artistic vision connected with—and reassured—people at every level of society.

Hiroshige often assembled his prints into collections or folios, including examples from 100 Famous Views of Edo and The 69 Stations of the Kiso Highway.

Read at Colossal