Senso-e - Senso-e are prints depicting wars, most often the Sino-Japanese War of 1894 - 1895 and the Russo-Japanese War in 1904 - 1905. Primarily triptychs, these images filled the journalistic need for illustrations of current activities on the battle front, but also acted as propaganda, encouraging support for the wars and fostering patriotism. These prints emphasized the bravery and success of the army and navy, using dramatic designs and bold compositions, with customers eagerly purchasing the latest prints. Some famous Meiji era artists did senso-e, including Kiyochika, Chikanobu, and Gekko. By the time the Russo-Japanese War came around, woodblock prints had fallen out of favor due to competition with photography and lithography, so fewer designs exist from this time period as compared to the Sino-Japanese War.

Comments - Dramatic scene from the Sino-Japanese War of a battle taking place along the edge of a river. Wounded Chinese attempt to flee across the water, pursued by Japanese troops on foot and on horseback. At left, a Japanese soldier pulls the pigtail of a shrieking Chinese man as he draws back his sword above his head, blood already spurting from the enemy's shoulder. The battle fighting continues behind them, with additional troops in white uniforms rushing up from the right as a Japanese flag flutters in the wind. An action-filled illustration.

Artist - Meiji era artist (not read)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 27 5/8" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Small loss, repaired with backing. Slight soiling, a few small marks and stains. Please see photos for details. Good overall.