Watching the Water Festival from Azuma Bridge, from the series "Eight Precincts of the Kinryuzan Temple in Asakusa (Asakusa Kinruzan hakkei)" c. 1782

"Watching the Water Festival from Azuma Bridge," is a woodblock print by Torii Kiyonaga, one of the most celebrated artists of the ukiyo-e genre. Dating to c. 1782, this work is part of Kiyonaga's series "Eight Precincts of the Kinryuzan Temple in Asakusa." The print portrays the vibrant scene of people gathered on a bridge to watch the Water Festival. It features finely detailed figures in elegant clothing, showcasing Kiyonaga's mastery of capturing both the fashion and social life of Edo-era Japan. The piece is a stunning example of the ukiyo-e tradition, known for its dynamic composition, vibrant colors, and depiction of everyday life. The print is currently housed in the Art Institute of Chicago.