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 - Terrific image of Japanese troops attacking a fortress during the Sino-Japanese War. At right, a Meiji minister or envoy rides in a black carriage accompanied by soldiers on foot and horseback, making their way through the imposing entrance gate. Skirmishes continue at left, with orderly rows of white-uniformed troops firing at Chinese defenders. Clouds of smoke billow across the scene and rain slants down over the darkening sky. An intriguing subject, nicely detailed with soft shading in the sky and burnishing in the carriage.

Artist - Kokunimasa (1874 - 1944)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 28" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, two panels mounted to backing sheets at sides. Slight thinning at edge, tear along edge, repaired. Small tear at edge, small hole. Slight creasing and soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.