Entrance Gate Explosion

by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Current Status

Entrance Gate Explosion by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Original Chikanobu (1838 - 1912) Japanese Woodblock Print
Entrance Gate Explosion

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 - Fantastic illustration from the Sino-Japanese War of a shell exploding at the entrance gate of a fortress, debris flying through the air as clouds of smoke sweep across the scene, the orange tint at left indicating flames from deep inside the walls. A Japanese warrior stands boldly in the center, his gun in hand with bayonet fixed as he lunges to the side to dodge the shards of wood. His cap has a single gold star at the center. Two other soldiers rush forward behind him, one leaping into the air with his hands thrown up. A terrific composition, beautifully detailed and shaded.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 27" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Slight soiling, creasing at edges, a few small spots and marks. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Entrance Gate Explosion by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)
Entrance Gate Explosion by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)