Kawasaki is one of the early stations in Sekino's monumental Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido series (1959-1974), reinterpreting the classic Hiroshige route through a modern sosaku-hanga lens. Each print was designed, carved, and printed by the artist. Tokaido stations typically sell for $300-$1,500, with key stations and fine condition commanding the upper range.
The post-town of Kawasaki, second station on the old Tokaido and today part of greater Tokyo's industrial sprawl, appears in this Tokaido series print. Sekino's depiction likely emphasizes the town's position at the crossing of the Tama River, a natural boundary marker that travelers on the road had to negotiate before pressing on toward Edo. The station carried associations with the Daishi temple and with the river ferries that served travelers through the early modern period.
1932
Color woodblock print; oban
c. 1833/34
Color woodblock print; oban
c. 1833/34
Color woodblock print; oban
1935
Color woodblock print; oban
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Kawasaki, from the series 53 Stations of the Tokaido was created by Jun'ichiro Sekino (関野準一郎).
Yes — Kawasaki, from the series 53 Stations of the Tokaido is part of the Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido series (print 4 of 55) by Jun'ichiro Sekino.
Kawasaki, from the series 53 Stations of the Tokaido uses Nishiki-e, Moku-hanga, and Kento, on woodblock print.
Kawasaki, from the series 53 Stations of the Tokaido depicts tōkaidō and travel scenes.
