Bidspirit auction | Utagawa Sadahide (1807-1879)

Utagawa Sadahide (1807-1879) - UTAGAWA SADAHIDE 19TH C. JAPANESE WOODBLOCK TRIPTYCH. Utagawa Sadahide (1807-1879) View of the Rising Sun over the Edo Sea Circa 1860 The oban woodblock triptych by Utagawa Sadahide depicts a massive Western paddle-wheel steamship navigating Edo Bay at sunrise. The striking image documents the arrival of Western steamship technology in Japanese waters. After 200 years of isolation from the rest of the world, this self-propelled mechanical giant initially caused shock and awe as a marvel of the modern world suddenly in a country accustomed to sail-driven ocean travel. The landscape features Mount Fuji and labeled coastal landmarks. The monster ship dominates the composition with its decks filled with figures of Westerners in top hats and tailcoats it's depicted as a floating city. On the left panel, the sun rises over the horizon, possibly suggesting the dawn of a new, globalized era for Japan. Each sight size measures 13.75 x 9.25 with a framed size of 19.75 x 36.5 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 Each sight size measures 13.75 x 9.25 with a framed size of 19.75 x 36.5 inches. Condition Very good condition, noting paper stress upper right and left corners of right and left sheets, sizeable stain left panel, no major damage, no repair, no other stain, not examined outside the frame. Provenance The estate of John Adair Jr. (1942-2025), founder and proprietor of Kurofune Antiques in Tokyo (est. 1978), a world-renowned destination for Japanese basketry, prints and furniture featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The Wall Street Journal.