Fuchū- View of the Second Street in the Licensed Pleasure Quarter c. 1840 - 1842

This woodblock print by Utagawa Hiroshige, titled "Fuchū - View of the Second Street in the Licensed Pleasure Quarter," depicts a bustling street scene in Edo (present-day Tokyo) during the Edo period. The print captures the vibrant atmosphere of the "Yoshiwara" district, a licensed pleasure quarter. The artist's use of color and detailed depiction of the scene, including figures in various poses and activities, showcases the dynamism of everyday life in Edo, with a focus on the city's vibrant entertainment and leisure scene. This work exemplifies the ukiyo-e genre, a style of Japanese art that flourished during the Edo period, known for its depiction of everyday life, popular culture, and landscapes.