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A 19th Century Japanese Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print Triptych, 'Picture of the Crossing of the Ōi River' (Ōigawa watashi no zu)

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Start price: £1

Estimated price: £500 - £1,000

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Description

A Japanese Ukiyo-e woodblock print triptych, dating to the Edo or early Meiji period (19th century). Comprising three vertically oriented panels on paper, the print is executed with colored inks and depicts a bustling scene of individuals, primarily women in kimonos, being carried across a wide river by bare-chested male porters. A mountainous landscape forms the background, with Mount Fuji visible in the rightmost panel. The print exhibits the characteristic Ukiyo-e style with strong outlines and areas of flat color. Each panel features vertical Japanese kanji text. The top right of the rightmost panel bears a title inscription, reading 「大井川渡之図」 (Ōigawa watashi no zu – “Picture of the Crossing of the Ōi River”). All panels include smaller red cartouches with additional text, likely artist signatures or publisher marks.


Condition report:

The print exhibits visible color fading, particularly in lighter tones. There is general paper toning consistent with age. Minor creasing is present across the panels. Edge wear is visible, consistent with the age and handling of the piece.