Kobayashi Kiyochika - Because of his place in history and the changing times in Japan while he was active, Kiyochika is considered both the last important ukiyo-e master and the first noteworthy print artist of modern Japan. Kiyochika studied photography with a pioneer in the field in Yokohama, and also Western-style painting. Kiyochika's style combines Western-style depiction of light and shade with contemporary subjects such as brick buildings and street cars, reflecting the rapid modernization of Japan during the Meiji era. Kiyochika bridges the transition from Edo era ukiyo-e to Meiji woodblock prints.

Comments - Beautiful view of the river at Gohommatsu on a rainy night. Two figures walk along the dark shore at right, their lanterns reflecting shimmering light on the wet surface of the road. Two steamboats glide along the serene river, a soft warm glow coming from the windows. A streak of yellow moonlight escapes from between the gray clouds overhead. A lovely evening scene, nicely composed with the dark silhouette of the tree forming a bold counterpart to the misty clouds.

Artist - Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Image Size - 8" x 12 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Some prints have a couple creases at edges, or slight rippling at edges from printing process. Please see photos for details. Otherwise excellent condition.