Bidspirit auction | By Utagawa Sadahide (1807-1873). Published

By Utagawa Sadahide (1807-1873). Published By Maruya Seikiro, Edo. - A RARE 1860s JAPANESE WOODBLOCK SUGOROKU 'BOARD GAME'. By Utagawa Sadahide (1807-1873). Published By Maruya Seikiro, Edo. Sugoroku Game of The Famous Places of Edo (Tokyo) Circa 1850-1865 A large-format Japanese color woodblock sugoroku game sheet presenting a pictorial tour of the famous places of Edo, the city now known as Tokyo, which at the time was the largest, or one of the very largest, cities in the world. Designed as both entertainment and geography lesson, the sheet invited players to move step by step across the city's landmarks, each identified by small red cartouches, serving to both educate and entertain. Mt Jujii dominates the top horizon line. Footnote: Sugoroku in this period (1865) were large-format Japanese printed board games in which players progress along a pictorial route by dice throws. They were made to be folded, used, punctured and ultimately disposed of. A well preserved example like the present print are very rare. Sight size measures 27.25 x 27.25 with a framed size of 34.25 x 34.25 inches. Without proof of exemption, be aware that internet sales tax applies to all Internet transactions and local sales tax may apply to local pick-up transactions. We happily provide seamless in-house packing and shipping services on nearly everything we sell. Until further notice, we cannot offer international shipping in-house. Dimensions Sight size measures 27.25 x 27.25 with a framed size of 34.25 x 34.25 inches. Condition Apparently the condition is very good, very clean, intact, no visible stain, damage, repair, punctures or tears. thinning along a central fold line with a tiny break just above the red cartouche. This work has not been examined outside the frame. Provenance Provenance: The estate of John Adair Jr. (1942-2025), founder and proprietor of Kurofune Antiques, Tokyo (est. 1978). A world-renowned destination for Japanese basketry, prints and furniture, Kurofune was a landmark destination featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The Wall Street Journal.