View of Sumida River c. 1840 - 1842

"View of Sumida River" is a woodblock print by the renowned Japanese artist Utagawa Hiroshige, created between 1840 and 1842. This ukiyo-e print, a genre popular in Edo-period Japan, captures the beauty of the Sumida River in Tokyo. The image depicts a serene scene with boats sailing down the river, while a flock of birds flies across a pale, pink-tinged sky at dusk. The print beautifully conveys the tranquility of daily life in Edo, showcasing Hiroshige's mastery of woodblock printing and his keen eye for detail. This work, housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is a testament to the artistic legacy of Hiroshige, who is celebrated for his landscapes and his ability to capture the essence of the natural world.