Aji (Horse Mackerel) and Kuruma-ebi (Prawn)
Woodblock print (ukiyo-e), nishiki-e (multi-colored) • Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858)
Style & Movement
Ukiyo-e, specifically the kacho-ga (flower and bird / nature) genre
Medium & Technique
Inks on handmade washi paper; polychrome woodblock printing featuring subtle bokashi (color gradation) and fine line work
Creation Period
Edo period, circa 1832-1834
Dimensions & Format
Oban yoko-e (horizontal format), approximately 25 x 37 cm
Subject Description
The composition features two horse mackerel (aji) in the foreground and a prawn (kuruma-ebi) in the upper left. It includes a kyoka (humorous poem) in the upper right. The work focuses on the realistic yet poetic representation of marine life, characterized by the translucent qualities of the fish and the intricate textures of the prawn's shell.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; shows some signs of age-related toning and possible minor fading of organic pigments, which is common for prints of this era.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,500 USD (depending on printing quality and state)
Auction Estimate
$1,200 - $2,800 USD
Provenance History
Likely from a known series titled 'A Group of Large Fish' (Uotsukushi), originally published by Eijudo (Nishimuraya Yohachi).
Art Historical Significance
Hiroshige is primarily known for landscapes, but his nature studies (kacho-ga) represent a pinnacle of technical mastery in woodblock printing. This series is celebrated for its scientific observation blended with artistic elegance, influencing later Impressionist interest in Japanese art.
Notable Features
Signature of 'Hiroshige ga' on the left; inclusion of kyoka poetry which adds a literary dimension; exceptional use of bokashi on the fish bodies to simulate scales and moisture.
Condition Issues
Visible oxidation of certain pigments, slight paper yellowing, and minor compression marks. The edges may show signs of previous mounting.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional archival mounting with acid-free materials, UV-filtering glass, and placement in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight to prevent further fading of the sensitive vegetable dyes.