Keiō Suikoden, by Utagawa Toyokuni III (Kunisada), c. 1865–1868. This ukiyo-e depicts a tattooed machi-bikeshi (町火消), or town firefighter, against the backdrop of a burning Edo neighbourhood. Although presented in the dramatic style of kabuki theatre, the print reflects the popular image of Edo's firefighters as courageous local heroes. In a city built largely of timber and repeatedly devastated by fire, organised fire brigades played a vital role in limiting the spread of blazes, often by demolishing buildings to create firebreaks.