Buyo Tsukuda gyosen (Fishing boats of Tsukuda in Musashi province)

Located at the mouth of the Sumida River, Tsukudajima was renowned for its seasonal shirauo (icefish) fishing. Hiroshige portrays fishermen pursuing their nightly catch, their boats equipped with fishing fires and large nets spread across the dark waters. The calm surface of the river, beneath a deep sky scattered with stars, creates a remarkably serene atmosphere. In one of the boats, the fishermen appear to have just made a successful catch, their animated gestures conveying a moment of joy and excitement amid the quiet nocturnal scene.
The large square red seal bearing the series title serves as a strong visual anchor within the unconventional fan format, skillfully balancing the composition and demonstrating Hiroshige’s masterful sense of design.