Bishu, Nagoya Shinkei - Utagawa Hiroshige II

A woodblock print by Utagawa Hiroshige II depicting the golden shachihoko of Nagoya Castle against a moonlit sky.

This woodblock print is part of the series 'A Hundred Views of Famous Places in the Various Provinces', a project initiated by Utagawa Hiroshige II. The composition focuses on the iconic golden shachihoko, a mythical creature with the head of a tiger and the body of a carp, which adorns the roof of Nagoya Castle. The artist positions the viewer at an elevated vantage point, looking out over the tiled roofline toward the horizon.

The sky transitions from a deep indigo at the top to a pale, soft gradient near the horizon, suggesting the transition of twilight. A flock of birds is captured in flight across the moonlit sky, adding a sense of movement to the otherwise static architectural elements. Below the castle roof, the landscape of Nagoya unfolds with a simplified depiction of trees and distant water, rendered in the characteristic flat colour planes of the Ukiyo-e tradition.

Utagawa Hiroshige II, a student of the master Utagawa Hiroshige, adopted many of his teacher's techniques regarding atmospheric perspective and the use of bold, graphic shapes. The print demonstrates the technical precision of the woodblock medium, with clear outlines and a controlled colour palette. The inclusion of the shachihoko serves as a cultural marker for the region, identifying the location through its most recognisable architectural feature. The work reflects the period's interest in travel and regional geography, providing a visual record of Japanese landmarks during the late Edo period. The print maintains a balance between the decorative nature of the golden ornament and the expansive, quiet atmosphere of the evening scene.