Katsushika Hokusai (Japanese, 1760-1849) Hōraiji Temple in Spring (Hōrai-ji no shunkei), from the series known as The Untitled Series of the Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō Road (Tōkaidō gojūsan tsugi) (first edition), circa 1804 Surimono woodblock print with gaufrage 5 x 14-1/4 inches (12.7 x 36.2 cm) (sheet, ko-tanzaku) Signed: Ga-kyō-jin Hokusai ga Property from the Nelkin Collection HID12401132022 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

Print presents well. The condition of the work is consistent with its age. Sheet is stable and laid to a thin backing sheet. Minor toning to sheet, appearing even throughout sheet with some mild to moderate fading primarily evident in red and yellow inked areas. Moderate accretions throughout the sheet, consistent with handling. A strong vertical center fold, some additional creasing likely due to laying the work to the supporting sheet. A minor liquid stain evident along upper edge verso (possibly resulting from adhesive), does not appear evident recto. A few small vestiges of hinging along extreme lower and upper edges verso. Unframe. No major tears or losses observed.