Ukiyoe Sanpo-Sanpo-Burari Mystery Solving
Product Description
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Edo-period Japan with "Ukiyoe in Oedo: A Memoir of the Edo Period," a book recommended by the renowned Junko Koshino. This long-awaited publication compiles her popular irregular column from "Hitotoiki," a magazine featured on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen bullet trains. The book delves into the fascinating art of Ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese woodblock prints that captured the lives, landscapes, and culture of the common people during the Edo period (1603–1867). With Ukiyo-e gaining global recognition and attention as part of the 2025 Taiga Drama series, this book offers a fresh perspective on these iconic works.
Featuring high-resolution reproductions from the Spalding Ukiyo-e Collection, housed at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, this book showcases vividly colored and exceptionally preserved prints. Known as the "Shosoin of Ukiyo-e," the collection has been carefully stored for nearly a century to protect its delicate colors, making it a treasure trove of Edo-period artistry. Through these detailed prints, readers can explore the hidden techniques, fine lines, and intricate details that bring the world of Ukiyo-e to life. The book invites you to uncover the secrets, riddles, and craftsmanship embedded in these masterpieces, offering a unique lens to view the world of Edo Japan.
Product Specification
The book is divided into four parts, each offering a deep dive into different aspects of Edo-period life and Ukiyo-e art:
- Part 1: Water Transportation in a Million City - Explore the bridges, canals, and bustling waterways of Edo through iconic Ukiyo-e prints, including views of Nihonbashi Bridge and the Sumida River.
- Part 2: Enjoy the Four Seasons - Discover the seasonal beauty of Edo, from cherry blossoms at Gotenyama to plum trees at Kameido Umeyashiki, as depicted by masters like Hiroshige and Hokusai.
- Part 3: Customs and Manners - Peek into the daily lives, fashion, and traditions of Edo's common people, including depictions of famous beauties, fire extinguishers, and seasonal celebrations.
- Part 4: Common People Traveling Freely - Take a journey along the Tokaido Highway, with scenes of famous landmarks, tea shops, and natural wonders captured in exquisite detail.
Highlights of the Spalding Ukiyo-e Collection
The Spalding Ukiyo-e Collection, donated to the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston in 1921, is a cornerstone of this book. The collection's exceptional preservation allows readers to experience the vivid colors and intricate details of Ukiyo-e as they were originally intended. The prints reveal the artistic genius of masters like Katsushika Hokusai and Utagawa Hiroshige, showcasing their ability to capture fine lines as thin as 0.1mm and their innovative techniques in woodblock printing.
Table of Contents
The book includes a comprehensive table of contents, guiding readers through a journey of discovery:
- Introduction: Oedo MAP - A Time Trip to Oedo
- Part 1: Water Transportation in a Million City
- Part 2: Enjoy the Four Seasons
- Part 3: Customs and Manners
- Part 4: Common People Traveling Freely
- Columns: Side Trips and Insights into Edo Life
- Chronological Table of the Edo Period
- Postscript
Why This Book is a Must-Have
Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the Edo period, this book offers a captivating exploration of Ukiyo-e and the world it depicts. By understanding the stories, techniques, and cultural context behind these prints, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and ingenuity of Edo-period Japan. The book also serves as a visual feast, with high-resolution images that allow you to examine every detail and uncover the hidden secrets of these timeless works.
Take a stroll through the streets of Edo, marvel at the craftsmanship of its artists, and uncover the mysteries of Ukiyo-e with "Ukiyoe in Oedo: A Memoir of the Edo Period."
