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 image from the Sino-Japanese War of a lone Japanese solider fighting off the Chinese. Bleeding from a head wound, his uniform tattered, the soldier valiantly battles his enemies, grabbing one opponent by the hair and pushing him away as he glares over his shoulder at another man. He is surrounded by attackers, who lunge at him with their swords, while others rush up to assist at left. At right, a Chinese soldier tumbles backwards to the ground, kicking off a shoe as he goes flying. An intriguing subject with fine bokashi shading in the mountains and sky in the distance.

Artist - Ginko (active 1874 - 1897)

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

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases and spots. Please see photos for details.