Bidspirit auction | Hiroshige Ii (1826-1869)

Hiroshige Ii (1826-1869) - A MID 19TH C. JAPANESE WOODBLOCK ODYSSEY THEME SUGOROKU. Hiroshige Ii (1826-1869) Pilgrimage to Ise: Shank's Mare Travel Sugoroku Circa 1860. Sugoroku was a color woodblock print path-style board game similar to the modern day game of Snakes and Ladders. In 19th century Japan, players often learned of new places or historical events while playing. This rare and animated board was inspired by and based on the comic tradition of the Hiza-kurige ('Shank's Mare') novels which were published as a serial between 1802 and 1822, enjoying widespread popularity and anticipation. Titled Pilgrimage to Ise: Shank's Mare Travel Sugoroku , this work documents the raucous adventures of travelers on the road to the Ise Grand Shrine. Moving inward from the start at Nihonbashi, the squares depict comedic mishaps, roadside brawls, and local customs, culminating in the sacred goal of Ise, the 19th-century equivalent of a bucket-list pilgrimage. The game's end marks the successful completion of a spiritual and physical odyssey. Sight size measures 16 x 23.75 with a framed size of 23.5 x 33 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 16 x 23.75 with a framed size of 23.5 x 33 inches. Condition Very good condition, no visible fold lines, visible central sheet joint, good colors, no visible stain to the block print (stain in the side panel), no damage, repair, punctures or tears. This work 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.