御鳳輦之図|Illustration of the Imperial Carriage (Gohōren no zu)
1889
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From the collection of Metropolitan Museum of Art
1889
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From the collection of Metropolitan Museum of Art
This triptych shows a grand procession with a red carriage at its center. Soldiers on horseback lead the way, dressed in matching dark uniforms with red trim. Behind them, more men march in rows, carrying poles and flags. The carriage has gold decorations and a small window where a figure sits inside. A stone bridge and buildings rise in the background, with a faint mountain range beyond. The scene looks busy but orderly, like a parade for someone important. The bright colors and clear lines make it feel lively, almost like a snapshot of history. If you like this, check out Utagawa Kunitoshi.
