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 scene from the Sino-Japanese War of Imperial Army soldiers climbing a rugged mountain peak to scout the enemy's position. An officer boldly points his sword in the direction of the target, a fortress hidden by the trees across a valley, just the rooftop visible above the dense foliage. His black uniform is detailed with burnished outlines of trim and braid, with a medal pinned to his chest. His men clamber up the rocky cliff at right, their guns slung over their back. Small boats ferry troops across the water from a warship anchored in the harbor under a softly glowing full moon. A dramatic composition, beautifully drawn with soft shading in the night sky.

Artist - Meiji era artist (unsigned)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 28 3/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight toning. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.