Completion of Newly Constructed Azuma Bridge in Tokyo (Tokyo Azumabashi shinchiku rakusei no zu)

四代歌川国政筆 「東京吾妻橋新築落成之図」

Japan’s rapid modernization in the late nineteenth century reshaped the landscape of Tokyo. Azuma Bridge, the subject of this print, opened in December 1887 and was the first metal bridge spanning the Sumida River. The earlier wooden bridge it replaced had been the departure point for those travelling to the Yoshiwara pleasure quarter upriver and the subject of many prints and paintings. Kunimasa captures the novelty of the new, industrial-looking span, supported by sturdy brick stanchions and thronged with figures dressed in a mix of Western and traditional Japanese clothing.