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 of Japanese troops pursuing the retreating enemy after capturing the Chinese fortress at Jinzhoucheng. Imperial soldiers rush forward wielding guns as clubs to attack the Chinese, who are engulfed in clouds of smoke and dust. A Japanese officer on horseback rides alongside his men, waving a sword to urge them forward, a large Japanese flag waving beside him. A handsome composition with wonderful line work and soft shading. The Boston Museum of Fine Arts has this image in its collection.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 27 1/2" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Very slight paper remnants on reverse at corners from previous mounting. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases and stains. Please see photos for details. Good overall.