Furyu Uki-e Atago Shiba zu (風流浮絵芝愛宕図, an elegant view of Atago Shiba)
Collection:CSM Museum & Study Collection
Date: c. 1800
Maker: Utagawa Toyokuni (歌川豊国)
Dimensions:
260 x 380 mm (26 x 38 cm)
Medium: O-ban Nishiki-e (大判錦絵, large-format coloured print)
Object number: O.25
DescriptionMt Atago (愛宕山) has the highest natural terrain in Edo (Tokyo) and its views were the subject of numerous nishiki-e prints from the Edo to Meiji periods.
The grey steps in the centre are called the 'stone steps of success (出世の石段)' at Atago Shrine (愛宕神社). The name derives from Magaki Heikuro (曲垣平九郎), who was the only one to succeed in the impossible task given by the third Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu (徳川家光). Iemitsu asked to ride up this steep slope on a horse to fetch plum branches for him. Among the retainers, he was the only one who dared to try, and luckily he succeeded, so his career was greatly promoted. It is the origin of the name 'stone steps of success', and even today many people who wish for career advancement make their wishes at this place.
The grey steps in the centre are called the 'stone steps of success (出世の石段)' at Atago Shrine (愛宕神社). The name derives from Magaki Heikuro (曲垣平九郎), who was the only one to succeed in the impossible task given by the third Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu (徳川家光). Iemitsu asked to ride up this steep slope on a horse to fetch plum branches for him. Among the retainers, he was the only one who dared to try, and luckily he succeeded, so his career was greatly promoted. It is the origin of the name 'stone steps of success', and even today many people who wish for career advancement make their wishes at this place.
