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 - Outstanding illustration from the Sino-Japanese War of Imperial Navy troops firing a large cannon at the Chinese near Haiyang Island. A barefooted sailor leaps into action, cranking a wheel to reposition the gun carriage following a shot. Smoke drifts in through the gun port at left and across the deck of the ship as officers direct the attack, one using binoculars to watch the shell's trajectory. An enemy shot explodes in the air at upper left, creating an orange starburst. The Boston Museum of Fine Arts has this image in its collection. Incredible detail in this striking triptych, including burnishing on the black caps and the black trim on the officers' uniform jackets. A fantastic choice for a student of naval history.

Artist - Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

Image Size - 13 1/2" x 28 1/4" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. Vertical folds. Small loss at edge and corner, small tear at edge, repaired. Slight toning, slight soiling at edges, a few creases. Please note, due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled. Please see photos for details. Good overall.