Defying a Shower of Bullets, He, Alone, Opened Hyonmu Gate, 1894

by Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Current Status

Defying a Shower of Bullets, He, Alone, Opened Hyonmu Gate, 1894 by Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Original Kiyochika (1847 - 1915) Japanese Woodblock Print
Defying a Shower of Bullets, He, Alone, Opened Hyonmu Gate, 1894

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 image of a lone Japanese soldier atop Hyonmu Gate during the Sino-Japanese War, a fallen enemy at his feet. He looks over his shoulder at the valley below, where explosions from guns glitter like white stars in the dark foliage. Red flames billow upwards from a distant fire, and clouds drift cross the night sky, with a full moon glowing softly at upper right. A terrific, atmospheric design with beautiful handling of the effects of light and fine bokashi shading.

Artist - Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 27 7/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. Slight separation at end of vertical centerfold, repaired. A few creases at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Defying a Shower of Bullets, He, Alone, Opened Hyonmu Gate, 1894 by Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)
Defying a Shower of Bullets, He, Alone, Opened Hyonmu Gate, 1894 by Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

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