Kobayashi Kiyochika - Because of his place in history and the changing times in Japan while he was active, Kiyochika is considered both the last important ukiyo-e master and the first noteworthy print artist of modern Japan. Kiyochika studied photography with a pioneer in the field in Yokohama, and also Western-style painting. Kiyochika's style combines Western-style depiction of light and shade with contemporary subjects such as brick buildings and street cars, reflecting the rapid modernization of Japan during the Meiji era. Kiyochika bridges the transition from Edo era ukiyo-e to Meiji woodblock prints.

Comments - Handsome view of dawn at Kanda Shrine, seen through a grove of trees, the rising sun spreading a rosy glow across the sky. At right, a tree trunk frames a red temple building, and two small figures in silhouette in the distance can be seen admiring the sunrise. Nice handling of the sunlight hitting the edge of the tree in the foreground. A lovely design.

Woodblock reprints - In the 20th century, artists and publishers collaborated to recreate famous woodblock prints for interested Japanese collectors and Westerners looking for rare designs. New blocks were made, and the prints were painstakingly printed by artisan printers in the same method as the 19th century originals - one block for each color. Woodblock reprints were an opportunity to collect and enjoy a famous design at a small fraction of the price of an original. They still are today.

Artist - Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Image Size - 8 1/2" x 13 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Please see photos for details.