Evening Moon at Ryōgoku Bridge c. mid 19th century

This woodblock print, “Evening Moon at Ryōgoku Bridge,” by Utagawa Hiroshige, depicts a serene scene of a moonlit evening over the Sumida River in Edo (present-day Tokyo). The view is framed by the wooden supports of the Ryōgoku Bridge, creating a sense of depth and intimacy. The artist masterfully uses subtle color gradations to evoke the soft glow of the moon, the gentle ripples of the water, and the delicate pink hues of the fading sunset. This print is a prime example of Hiroshige’s skillful use of perspective and light, capturing the essence of a tranquil moment in Japanese nature.