Bidspirit auction | Utagawa Sadahide (1807-1879)

Utagawa Sadahide (1807-1879) - A JAPANESE WOODBLOCK BIRDSEYE VIEW OF YOKAHAMA C. 1860. Utagawa Sadahide (1807-1879) Detailed View of Yokohama Honcho and Miyozaki Pleasure Quarters 1859-1860 The striking oban triptych bird's-eye view of Yokohama Port coincides with the aftermath of the 1859 opening of the port to foreign trade, and its rapid development following the arrival of the ''Black Ships'' following Japan's 200 years of isolation, The work serves as an overview map of the city's various districts, including the Gankiro, a famous teahouse and licensed brothel in the Miyozaki pleasure district, established to cater to the influx of wealthy foreign merchants and sailors. An American flag is depicted in the lower right corner. The small red rectangular cartouches throughout mark the location of specific merchants, teahouses, consulates and other destinations - much like the pins on a Google map. These prints were intended to be sold as souvenirs to tourists who traveled from the interior of Japan to see the ''foreigners'' allowed into the country, specifically the port of Yokohoma, for the first time in over 200 years. Each sight size measures 13.75 x 9.5 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 9.5 with a framed size of 19.75 x 36.5 inches. Condition Very good to fine condition, very clean, very good color throughout, intact, no stain, damage, repair, punctures or tears. This has not been 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.