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 - Interesting view of Umekawa Shrine during a rainstorm, the raindrops slanting across the scene. A lone figure huddled beneath an umbrella crosses the grounds in front of a torii gate, a rickshaw driver waiting for a passenger in the shelter of a doorway at left. Wonderful handling of the effects of rain, with the color of the raindrops changing from gray to white to contrast with the light and dark areas of the subject. A fascinating, tapestry-like effect.

Artist - Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Image Size - 8 1/8" x 12 3/4" + 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.