Title : Mannen Bridge, Fukagawa

Artist : Utagawa Hiroshige

Date : 1857

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Source : Honolulu Museum of Art
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Description : Mannen Bridge was not a famous location. This print depicts a turtle hanging from the handle of a wooden bucket. The wooden frames on the right and bottom of the composition are supposed to represent the bridge's handrail. The turtle is associated with a Buddhist ritual called höjöe, in which devotees release trapped animals and other creatures, symbolizing wishes for a good after-life. The sunset in the far distance indicates that the direction is West, which could be connected to the Buddhist Western paradise, the place for the after-life. This print may well signify Hiroshige's desire for a good after-life for the earthquake victims. (from Good News from Hiroshige exhibition 10/9/2008-)

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