Fireworks at Ryōgoku Bridge c. 1840 - 1842

"Fireworks at Ryōgoku Bridge" (c. 1840-1842) is a woodblock print by the renowned Japanese artist Utagawa Hiroshige. This ōban (horizontal) print depicts a vibrant scene of fireworks exploding over the Ryōgoku Bridge in Edo (present-day Tokyo). Hiroshige masterfully captures the spectacle of the fireworks, their red and orange hues illuminating the night sky, and the surrounding waters teeming with boats. The cityscape below, bathed in the soft glow of the fireworks, creates a sense of bustling activity and the festive atmosphere of a summer night. The print is a classic example of the ukiyo-e style, renowned for its detailed depictions of everyday life in Edo-era Japan. The print is now housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, showcasing Hiroshige's exceptional skill in conveying both the beauty and dynamism of his subject matter.