Tsukiji Market, Tokyo

This reference image is of a modern Japanese fish market, but the fish themselves and the arrangement are likely similar to what might be found in Edo Period Japan. The fish and octopi are arranged flat on the ice so that each individual product is on display, and the variety makes the whole layout attractive to customers. Note the colors of the fish, and especially the bright red appearance of the Madako octopi, which only take on this hue after being caught.

Oliver Jue