Akasaka--Scene at an Inn with Maids c. 1832 - 1833

This ōban woodblock print by renowned ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Hiroshige depicts a lively scene at an inn in Akasaka, a district in Edo (present-day Tokyo). The print, created around 1832-1833, showcases Hiroshige's masterful use of color and perspective, capturing the bustling atmosphere of the inn. The viewer is drawn into the scene through a cleverly positioned palm tree, offering a glimpse into the inner workings of the inn, where guests relax and maids go about their tasks. The print's meticulous details, vibrant hues, and dynamic composition exemplify Hiroshige's talent for capturing everyday life in Edo.