Posted by John Fiorillo on May 28, 2001 at 12:22:47:
In Reply to: a real hiroshige print? posted by James Adams on May 28, 2001 at 04:50:55:
James,
You've done a good job in beginning your search for answers about your Hiroshige. You don't mention, however, whether you attempted to compare the key block lines with a good, clear illustration of a known original. There are various books on ukiyo-e in general or Hiroshige in particular that do have large, sharply reproduced illustrations of the Kiso Road triptych, so try finding one that you can buy for reference or that you can borrow from a library. Then compare all the lines, particularly the many tree branches and grasses. If it is a copy you will see differences throughout the design, even if they are slight.
You are correct about the value of an original Kiso Road in fine condition - it would be very expensive. The chances that you have an original in perfect condition are slim, but you should do what you can to verify it.
As for framing or storing your print, I would take care whether it is a copy or not. You obviously like the print so why not treat it carefully, regardless of its authenticity? Even modern copies will fade in the light or darken due to acidic storage materials. If you must have it in a frame, use archival materials (pH neutral museum mats and acid-free hinging tape - better yet, Japanese paper hinges - attached to the upper corners of the back of the print only). If you decide to keep in it a portfolio, use an archival storage folder that is pH neutral (unbuffered as well), and don’t place the printed sides face to face so as to avoid rubbing of the pigments (some collectors prefer interleaving pH neutral glassine sheets in between the prints in a single folder). See my discussion on this and related topics at:
John