Saka no shita 1906

This woodblock print, "Saka no shita," created by Utagawa Hiroshige (I) in 1906, depicts a scene from the Tokaido Road. It is part of a series showcasing the 53 Stations of the Tokaido, a major route connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and Kyoto. The image features a steep mountain pass, a teahouse, travelers, and a horse-drawn carriage. It is a classic example of ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art that flourished during the Edo period, known for its colorful depiction of everyday life, landscapes, and kabuki theatre. The work showcases Hiroshige's mastery of perspective and atmospheric effects, with subtle shades of blue and grey creating a sense of depth and distance.