Utagawa Yoshitora, Detailed Description of Mirsui House in\., 1874, Woodcut

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Description

A beautiful nishiki-e trpicht depicting scenes of life in Tokyo in the first Meiji period. The triptych depicts the Western-style … Read more A beautiful nishiki-e trpicht depicting scenes of life in Tokyo in the first Meiji period. The triptych depicts the Western-style Mitsui building in Suruga-cho, with Mount Fuji visible in the background. In the foreground, on both sides of the street, stand the large textile stores of the Mitsui family (known as Echigoya, which would later become the Mitsukoshi chain), characterized by traditional dark roofs and blue curtains bearing the company logo. Dominating the center background is the Mitsui Bank headquarters, an imposing three-story building that blends Western colonial elements with a traditional roof topped by a large bronze dolphin (*shachihoko*). At the time, this structure was a key symbol of Tokyo's enlightenment and technological progress. In the background to the left, the unmistakable silhouette of Mount Fuji stands out; indeed, Suruga-cho Street was renowned for the perfect perspective that framed the mountain. The street is alive with a diverse crowd reflecting an era of transition, where horse-drawn carriages mingle with pedestrians in traditional Japanese attire and figures wearing early examples of Western-style clothing. Very good condition. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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