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56. Mannen Bridge, Fukagawa (Fukagawa Mannenbashi) (11th Month, 1857)
30.1478.56
This print suggests a visual and verbal play between the turtle as a conventional symbol of longevity in Chinese and Japanese lore and the name of the bridge, Mannen, which means "ten thousand years." The turtle may also refer to the bridge's location in the Fukagawa district, where turtles were bred for sale as pets. Moreover, it was a common custom in Edo for breeders of eels, carp, and turtles to offer their wares near bridges, for release into the rivers or canals below in hope of building up positive karma.
Eastern Parkway/Brooklyn Museum