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.
Beauty of the Enpo Period (1673-1681)
(K183-F151)
Lord Sadanobu Threatening a Demon in the Palace at Night
(K045-F247)
The Actor Onoe Kikugoro V as the Hag of Adachi
(K231-F271)
Kabuki Actor
(K141-F088)
Actor Ichikawa Sadanji I as Kaôshô no Tachi
(K313)
A Woman Saving the Nation: A Chronicle of Great Peace
(K039-F230)
Thunderstorm on the Omaya Bridge
(K281-F241)
Otomi Yosaburo no hanashi (The Story of Otomi and Yosaburo)
(K025-F083 )
Expectant: the appearance of a fireman's wife of Kaei era
(K030-F085)
Ashigarayama no tsuki (Mount Ashigara moon)
(K033-F214)
Actor Ichikawa Danjuro as Shoki the Demon Queller
(K139-F051)
Sketch for a Woodblock Print
(K227-F246A)
Nihon hana zue (Cherry blossoms at the fountain)
(K375)
A Record of the Kabukiza: Shibaraku and an Imperial Lady
(K414)
Otomi Takenouchi no Sukune torturing a Korean
(K410)
Seigen daraku no zu (The Depravity of Monk Seigen)
(K470)
Shiba Kanasugi Mishima-ya
(K307)
Maebara Ikkaku Holding a Sword
(K417)
The actor Onoe Kikugoro V in the role of the evil Asao no Tsubon
(K508)
Sageo no Isuke
(909)
Hitsu no Saishô Haruhira
(1338)
