UTAGAWA HIROSHIGE II (1826-1869) Edo period (1615-1868), probably mid 19th century (2)UTAGAWA HIROSHIGE II (1826-1869)Edo period (1615-1868), probably mid 19th century Two album leaves, in ink, colour and kirikane on silk, mounted on card; the first depicting a lively street scene of passers-by enjoying a show of itinerant musicians and acrobats, along the embankments of Edo Castle; the second another lively street scene of an elegantly dressed group of bystanders entranced by a juggling act performed to the accompaniment of a flute and drums, sailing boats and a Western-style architectural building in the far right distance; each signed Hiroshige hitsu with seal Ichiryusai. Each 30.5cm x 33.5cm (12in x 13 3/16in). (2).The subject matter of the first appears to be a reinterpretation of the famous scene from pictorial handscroll Kinsei shokunin tsukushi ekotoba (Picture Scroll of Modern Artisans in Various Trades) by Kitao Masayoshi (also known as Kuwagata Keisai). The handscroll is filled with often-humorous depictions of different professions. An album of similar paintings by the artist of scenes along the Tokaido Road was sold at Christie's, New York, 16 March 2021, lot 71.