Meiji
During the Meiji period in Japan (1868-1912), woodblock prints, known as "Meiji prints," underwent significant changes in style and subject matter. The Meiji period marked a time of modernization and Westernization in Japan, as the country opened up to the world after centuries of isolation.
Meiji prints often depicted scenes of rapid modernization, such as industrialization, urbanization, and the introduction of Western technology and fashion. The prints reflected the changing society and the fascination with Western culture that emerged during this period.
The subjects of Meiji prints expanded beyond traditional ukiyo-e themes. They included images of political events, historical figures, landscapes, and portraits of influential individuals. The prints also depicted scenes from the Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) and the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905), reflecting Japan's military successes and nationalistic sentiments.
In terms of style, Meiji prints incorporated elements of Western art techniques and aesthetics. The use of perspective, shading, and realistic portrayal of figures became more prevalent. The prints also started to incorporate new materials and techniques, such as lithography and photography, alongside traditional woodblock printing.
While Meiji prints were not as prolific or popular as ukiyo-e prints during the Edo period, they played a significant role in documenting and reflecting the societal changes and cultural shifts of the time. They provide valuable insights into the transition from a feudal society to a modern nation.
Fumiya no Watamaro and surrendering rebels in Oshu
(D627)
worldwide shipping
Sanjûni-sô tsuika Hyakumensô (32 and 100 Facial Expressions)
(1933)
Takanawa ôkido (Checkpoint at Takanawa)
(F015)
worldwide shipping
Keicho goro and Izumo no Okuni
(F177)
Gogatsu, Horikiri (Iris Garden in Horikiri in May)
(240)
Shichigatsu Tsukudajima, Bon-dori (Dance in Tsukudajima in July)
(1276)
Jūnigatsu, Kaiunbashi, Kabuto-cho
(1277)
Onoguchi Tokuji Blowing up the Gate at Kinshu
(1828)
Amerikajin (American)
(459)
Russo-Japanese War
(F391)
Shunga
(D151)
Shunga
(D152)
Shunga
(D158)
Shizuka
(G268)
worldwide shipping
Shigemori
(G270)
Sotosakurada Rikugun Sanbô honbu
(1877)
Tsukudajima Island
(E013)
Tanaka Tsurukichi
(442)
Mariko (22nd Station)
(2065)
Hane no Kamura
(681)
Kudanzaka miharashi Takatôrô
(2039)
Shunga
(D454)
Shunga
(D455)
Nr. 25 from The Fifty-four Chapters of the Genji monogatari
(G586)
Musashi no kuni, Tōkyō Nihonbashi
(I064)
Kabuki-e theatre diptych
(I487)
Kabuki Actors
(I648)
Two Actors in a Kabuki Play
(I650)
Ohara Gokô
(2188)
Kantan
(2187)
