The Occupation of Kinshu Castle (Jinzhoucheng), 1894

by Kokunimasa (1874 - 1944)

Current Status

The Occupation of Kinshu Castle (Jinzhoucheng), 1894 by Kokunimasa (1874 - 1944)

Original Kokunimasa (1874 - 1944) Japanese Woodblock Print
The Occupation of Kinshu Castle (Jinzhoucheng), 1894

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 - Dynamic action scene depicting a battle during the Sino-Japanese War. At right, two Meiji Imperial officers on horseback rally the troops to attacking, waving their swords as the soldiers rush forward on foot. In the center, a shot explodes from the muzzle of a gun as a Japanese soldier fires, knocking a Chinese rider from his falling horse. A swirling plume of red smoke drifts up across the battlefield along with clouds of gray smoke and dust. A dramatic image with expressive figures, nicely detailed with fine bokashi shading and burnishing on the black uniforms.

Artist - Kokunimasa (1874 - 1944)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 27 1/4" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. Vertical folds. A couple small spots and creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

The Occupation of Kinshu Castle (Jinzhoucheng), 1894 by Kokunimasa (1874 - 1944)
The Occupation of Kinshu Castle (Jinzhoucheng), 1894 by Kokunimasa (1874 - 1944)

Auction Rules and guidelines

This Auction Falls Under Our Standard Auction Rules and Guidelines

If you are a new bidder, please read the Rules and Guidelines page before bidding.