Japanese Printmaking
Japanese Printmaking, also known as Ukiyo-e, emerged in the Edo Period (1603-1868) in Japan. It is an art form that revolutionized visual culture not only within Japan but also influenced Western artists during the late 19th century through what is known as Japonisme.
History and Development
- Origins: The art of printmaking in Japan began with the development of woodblock printing techniques. Early forms of printmaking were used for Buddhist texts and scrolls, but by the late 17th century, the technique evolved into Ukiyo-e, which means "pictures of the floating world."
- Technique: Japanese printmaking involves several steps:
- Designing by an artist.
- Carving the design onto cherry wood blocks, one for each color.
- Printing by applying ink to the blocks and pressing paper onto them. This process could involve up to 20 different blocks for a single print.
- Golden Age: The 18th and 19th centuries are considered the golden age of Ukiyo-e. Artists like Hokusai, Hiroshige, and Utamaro became famous for their works, which included landscapes, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and beautiful women.
- Subjects: Ukiyo-e prints often depicted scenes from everyday life, theatrical performances, landscapes, and erotica (Shunga). They were popular among the merchant class who could afford these relatively inexpensive prints.
Impact and Influence
- Domestic Influence: Ukiyo-e prints were not just art; they were also used for advertising, book illustrations, and as souvenirs. They played a crucial role in shaping the visual culture of the Edo period.
- International Influence: Following the opening of Japan in the mid-19th century, Ukiyo-e prints were exported to the West, influencing artists like Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Edgar Degas. This influence led to the development of Japonisme.
Modern Era
While the traditional Ukiyo-e style waned with the introduction of photography and lithography in the late 19th century, Japanese printmaking has seen a revival with artists like Hasui Kawase and Shin-Hanga (new prints) movement, which tried to blend traditional techniques with modern themes.
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