['Hakone station, second (design) - servant Fudesuke', 'Fifty-three station of the Tokaido'] 1852 - 1859

This ukiyo-e woodblock print, titled "Hakone Station, Second (Design) - Servant Fudesuke" from the "Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido" series, was created by Utagawa Kunisada in 1852-1859. It portrays Fudesuke, a servant, in a dynamic pose, partially obscured by the mountainous backdrop of the Hakone station. The vibrant colors and detailed brushstrokes highlight the dynamic composition, which includes both realism and stylized elements, characteristic of Kunisada's works. This print, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a testament to the popularity of the "Tokaido Road" series, showcasing the beauty and unique characters of Japan in the mid-19th century.