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 - Bold and dynamic illustration of Japanese infantry storming the walls of the battery at Port Arthur during the Sino-Japanese War. The Chinese soldiers are in full retreat as Japanese soldiers pour over the walls and past the cannons. Smoke billow across the sky from the guns, and Japanese warships can be seen in the harbor beyond as smaller boats convey troops to the port. Nicely detailed with fine bokashi shading.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 27 1/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight paper remnants on reverse from previous backing. A couple holes, repaired. Slight toning, a few creases and spots. Please see photos for details.