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.
Hitsu no Saishô Haruhira
(1338)
Tomonaga
(1158)
Sageo no Isuke
(909)
Actor Ichikawa Sadanji I as Kaôshô no Tachi
(K313)
Fan Print: Iris Garden
(K311)
Battle at Port Arthur (Russo-Japanese War)
(K173-F101)
The Actor Onoe Kikugoro V as the Hag of Adachi
(K231-F271)
Lord Sadanobu Threatening a Demon in the Palace at Night
(K045-F247)
Beauty of the Enpo Period (1673-1681)
(K183-F151)
English couple (Yokohama-e print)
(K085-F168)
Riding in a Wash Tub
(K026-F212)
Shichi-fuku-jin (Seven deities)
(K041-F309)
The Heavy Basket
(K046-F248)
Kabuki Actors
(K089-F095)
Nakamura Shikan in the role of Masakiyo Sato
(K087-F237)
Oda Udaijin Taira Nobunaga
(K075-F357)
Ii no Hayata Killing a Nue at the Imperial Palace
(K044-F253)
Genji yugao maki (The Yugao chapter from The Tale of Genji)
(K048-F250)
Shinkan no tsuki (The moon's inner vision)
(K004)
Inamuragasaki no mei honobono tsuki
(K005)
Battle of Jinzhou
(J698)
Nichigun Heijô dai-shingeki no zu
(J697)
Dai gekisen nihyakusan kôchi senryô
(J695)
Train accident on lake Baikal during Russo-Japanese war
(J694)
Shunga
(J452)
Jigoku no ōhanjō (Hell is Booming)
(J467)
Kyōsai hyaku-zu
(J462)
Kyōsai hyaku-zu
(J463)
Daimonji from Nijo Castle
(2172)
Commotion at Dragon Palace
(J427)