Sudden Shower over Shin-Ōhashi Bridge and Atake, from the series One Hundred Famous Views of Edo
A hand-painted replica of Andō Hiroshige’s masterpiece Sudden Shower over Shin-Ōhashi Bridge and Atake, from the series One Hundred Famous Views of Edo, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
Sudden Shower over Shin-Ōhashi Bridge and Atake is a woodblock print created by the Japanese ukiyo-e artist Andō Hiroshige (1797–1858). It is part of his celebrated series One Hundred Famous Views of Edo (Meisho Edo Hyakkei), which was published between 1856 and 1858 during the late Edo period. This series is widely regarded as one of Hiroshige's masterpieces and a significant contribution to the ukiyo-e tradition.
The print depicts a sudden rainstorm over the Shin-Ōhashi Bridge and the nearby Atake area in Edo, which is present-day Tokyo. The scene captures a dramatic moment as dark rain clouds sweep across the sky, and heavy rain falls diagonally in fine, sharp lines. The Shin-Ōhashi Bridge spans the Sumida River, and the composition shows several figures crossing the bridge, some hurrying to shield themselves from the downpour with umbrellas or straw hats. In the foreground, a small boat is visible on the river, with its occupants braving the storm.
Hiroshige's use of perspective, color, and composition in this print is particularly notable. The contrast between the dark, stormy sky and the lighter tones of the bridge and river creates a striking visual effect. The diagonal lines of the rain add a dynamic sense of movement, while the figures and boat provide a human element to the natural scene. The print exemplifies Hiroshige's ability to convey atmosphere and mood, as well as his keen observation of everyday life in Edo.
The One Hundred Famous Views of Edo series was produced using the traditional Japanese woodblock printing technique, which involved collaboration between the artist, carvers, and printers. Hiroshige designed the images, which were then carved into wooden blocks and printed using water-based inks. This particular print is considered one of the most iconic works in the series and has been praised for its innovative composition and emotional impact.
Hiroshige's work, including this print, had a significant influence on Western art in the 19th century, particularly on the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements. Artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet admired and studied Hiroshige's prints, incorporating elements of Japanese aesthetics into their own work.
Today, Sudden Shower over Shin-Ōhashi Bridge and Atake remains one of Hiroshige's most famous and frequently reproduced images. It is held in high regard for its artistic and historical significance, offering a glimpse into the landscapes and daily life of Edo during the late Edo period. Original impressions of the print are housed in major museum collections worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the British Museum in London.
