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.
Two Actors in a Kabuki Play
(I650)
Ohara Gokô
(2188)
Kantan
(2187)
Semimaru
(2193)
Mekari
(2185)
Clam Gathering
(I695)
Poisoned Husband
(I693)
Takakura no tsuki, Hasebe Nobutsura
(J051)
worldwide shipping
Departure from Hiroshima Harbor
(J044)
The Imperial Army's Great Battle of Pyongyang
(J042)
Two women on the beach, fishermen are in the background
(I565)
A major General's Concubine
(J213)
Michi no Omi no Mikoto
(J214)
Tigers Attacking Chinese Soldiers during the Battle of Pyeongyan
(J240)
Ogyu Sorai
(I378)
Kinuta no tsuki (Cloth-beating moon)
(J313)
Ôe no ôji (Nakatomi Kamatari and Prince Ôe)
(J310)
Chinese in a tent camp eating soup
(J426)
Commotion at Dragon Palace
(J427)
Daimonji from Nijo Castle
(2172)
Kyōsai hyaku-zu
(J463)
Kyōsai hyaku-zu
(J462)
Jigoku no ōhanjō (Hell is Booming)
(J467)
Shunga
(J452)
Train accident on lake Baikal during Russo-Japanese war
(J694)
Dai gekisen nihyakusan kôchi senryô
(J695)
Nichigun Heijô dai-shingeki no zu
(J697)
Battle of Jinzhou
(J698)
Inamuragasaki no mei honobono tsuki
(K005)
Shinkan no tsuki (The moon's inner vision)
(K004)