<b>NEW YEARS EVE FOXFIRES AT THE CHANGING TREE, OJI</b> / Ando Hiroshige1856<B>SOLD</B></em>

Details

In this enchanting scene, Hiroshige captures the mystical atmosphere of New Year's Eve in Edo (modern-day Tokyo). Set deep in the woods just beyond the outskirts of outlying city residences, foxes congregate around a weathered tree. Small supernatural flames accompany the congregation, casting an otherworldly glow over the wintry scene. The fox fires, believed to be manifestations of fox spirits, flicker amidst the tranquil surroundings, adding an element of mystery and folklore to the composition. Hiroshige's masterful use of color and texture imbues the print with a sense of magic and intrigue, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the rich mythological tapestry of Edo-era Japan.

This evocative print not only showcases Hiroshige's technical prowess but also offers a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs and traditions of the Edo period. As viewers gaze upon the scene, they are transported to a time when New Year's Eve was both a celebration and a time of reverence, marked by rituals and superstitions. Through "Fox Fires on New Year's Eve," Hiroshige captures the essence of a bygone era, where nature and spirituality intertwined to create moments of transcendent beauty amidst the hustle and bustle of Edo life.

Connoisseur's Note

This design is regarded as one of the masterworks from the series. The red pigment in the foxfires has oxidized to a brown hue, which contributes to the design's austere and otherworldly appearance.