Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a chirimen-gami (crepe paper) woodblock print depicting 'Teppozu Inari-bashi Minato Shrine' from the iconic series 'One Hundred Famous Views of Edo' originally designed by Utagawa Hiroshige. It features a dramatic foreground composition framing Mount Fuji in the distance, rendered on highly textured, compressed mulberry paper that mimics the feel of woven crepe silk.
Story
In the late 19th century, Japanese publishers discovered Western tourists loved prints that felt like fabric. By repeatedly compressing wet woodblock prints in mechanical presses, they created pocket-sized, crinkled masterpieces that survived long journeys home.
Maker / Origin
While the original composition was designed by the legendary landscape master Utagawa Hiroshige I (1797–1858) in 1857, this crepe variant was produced by late Meiji-era publishers who specialized in exporting these novelty textured prints to a Western market captivated by Japonisme.
Condition & Value
The print is in well-preserved condition with strong, saturated colors and the characteristic crepe texture remaining highly defined. The margins are slightly trimmed, and the reverse shows some light toning consistent with age, but it appears free of major tears, stains, or severe fading.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.