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 - Fantastic, complete six panel woodblock print depicting the naval battle off Takushan during the Sino-Japanese War. This outstanding panoramic view shows the Japanese Imperial fleet fighting a pitched battle against the Chinese, with several enemy ships in flames. At far left, a Chinese vessel begins to sink beneath the waves as clouds of smoke and flames billow into the sky. Near the bottom center, desperate Chinese sailors cling to the masts of their ship, the only parts still visible above the choppy water. Several small Japanese gunboats can be seen on the water amongst the larger warships. A fascinating, memorable image, wonderfully detailed, very rare to be found complete in six panels. A terrific choice for a student of military history or a collector interested in this historic conflict.

Artist - Kokunimasa (1874 - 1944)

Image Size - 14" x 55 1/2"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Six separate panels. Slight paper remnants on reverse at sides from previous mounting. Small repair, slight rippling. Please see photos for details.