Ukiyo-e, meaning “pictures of the floating world,” is a genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th to the 19th century. These woodblock prints and paintings capture the vibrant urban culture of Edo-period Japan, depicting everything from beautiful women to dramatic landscapes.
Origins and Development
- Period: Emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868)
- City of Origin: Edo (modern Tokyo)
- Initial Subjects: Scenes from kabuki theater, courtesans, and everyday urban life
Ukiyo-e started as a way to reflect the pleasures and pastimes of the urban middle class. Over time, it evolved to include a wide range of subjects, expanding its appeal and significance.
Techniques and Materials
Ukiyo-e artists utilized specific techniques and materials to create their works.
- Woodblock Printing: The primary method, allowing for mass production and wide distribution
- Materials: Cherry wood blocks, rice paper, and natural pigmentsPigments are essential to the creation of art, providing the vibrant colors that artists use to bring their visions to life. These substances, derived from a variety of natural and synthetic sources, have a rich history and a wide range of applications in both traditional and modern art. Colour Pigments Definition and Composition • Pigment: A material that imparts color
- Process:
- Design: Artist sketches the initial design
- Carving: Skilled craftsmen carve the design into wooden blocks
- Printing: InkInk, a liquid or paste used for writing, drawing, and printing, has played a crucial role in communication and artistic expression throughout history. Made from various pigments and dyes, ink allows for the transfer of text and images onto surfaces such as paper, fabric, and other materials. Types of Ink There are several types of ink, each serving different purposes is applied to the blocks, which are then pressed onto paper
This collaborative process involved multiple artisans, each contributing to the final artwork.
Prominent Artists
Several artists played crucial roles in the development and popularity of ukiyo-e.
- Hishikawa Moronobu: Considered one of the founders of ukiyo-e, known for his detailed depictions of everyday life
- Kitagawa UtamaroKitagawa Utamaro, a prominent ukiyo-e artist of the Edo period, is celebrated for his exquisite portraits of women, known as bijin-ga. His works are renowned for their delicate beauty and insightful depiction of the female form and psyche. Early Life and Training • Born: 1753, in Edo (modern Tokyo) • Original Name: Kitagawa Ichitarō • Training: Studied under the ukiyo-e: Famous for his portraits of beautiful women (bijin-ga), capturing their grace and elegance
- Katsushika HokusaiKatsushika Hokusai, an iconic figure in Japanese art, is best known for his woodblock print series "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji." His works capture the beauty of nature and the dynamic forces within it, leaving an indelible mark on the art world. Early Life and Training • Born: 1760 in Edo (modern Tokyo) • Original Name: Tokitarō • Training: Apprenticed: Renowned for his landscape prints, especially “The Great Wave off Kanagawa”
- Utagawa HiroshigeUtagawa Hiroshige, one of the last great ukiyo-e artists, created works that captured the essence of Edo-period Japan. Known for his landscapes and vibrant prints, Hiroshige's influence extends beyond his time, reaching artists and art enthusiasts worldwide. Early Life and Training • Born: 1797 in Edo (modern Tokyo) • Family: Son of a low-ranking samurai and fire warden • Initial: Celebrated for his landscapes and travel scenes, such as “The Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō”
Each artist brought their unique perspective and style, enriching the genre and broadening its appeal.
Themes and Subjects
Ukiyo-e covers a diverse range of themes and subjects.
- Bijin-ga: Pictures of beautiful women, often courtesans or geishas
- Kabuki Theater: Dramatic scenes and portraits of famous actors
- Nature and Landscapes: Depictions of scenic spots, seasons, and famous landmarks
- Historical and Mythological Scenes: Stories from Japanese history and folkloreFolklore in art draws from the rich oral traditions, legends, and customs passed down through generations. These stories and motifs provide a window into the cultural identity and collective wisdom of various communities, making them a vital source of inspiration for artists worldwide. European Folklore European folklore encompasses a wide array of tales and characters that have left a lasting
These themes reflect the interests and experiences of Edo-period society, offering a window into its cultural life.
Influence and Legacy
Ukiyo-e had a profound impact both within Japan and internationally.
- Japanese Art: Influenced later art movements and inspired subsequent generations of artists
- Western Art: Admired by Impressionists and Post-Impressionists, who were influenced by its composition and use of color
Artists like Vincent van GoghVincent van Gogh (1853 – 1890) is one of the renowned Post-Impressionist artists, best known for his striking use of colour, emphatic brushwork, and contoured forms. As a son of a pastor, the Dutch artist war brought up in a religious and cultured atmosphere. After working unsuccessfully as a clerk at a bookstore, as a salesman, and as a preacher and Claude MonetFrench painter Claude Monet (1840 – 1926) was a key figure of the impressionist movement which started in the second half of the 19th century. During his long career, Monet focused on depicting leisure activities and plein air landscape painting. Born in Paris, his family moved to Le Havre in Normandy when Claude was 5 years old. From early on, incorporated elements of ukiyo-e into their work, demonstrating its broad and lasting influence.
Collecting Ukiyo-e
Ukiyo-e prints remain highly valued by collectors and museums worldwide. When collecting, consider:
- Condition: Prints in good condition with vibrant colors are more valuable
- Edition: Early editions are rarer and more sought after
- Artist: Works by renowned artists such as Hokusai, Hiroshige, and Utamaro are particularly prized
Conclusion
Ukiyo-e represents a significant and influential chapter in the history of art. Through its vivid depictions of the “floating world,” it provides a rich and nuanced view of Edo-period Japan. The legacy of ukiyo-e continues to resonate today, inspiring artists and captivating audiences with its beauty and craftsmanship.
Read more how Japanese prints influenced other artists:
The Three Ages of Woman by Gustav Klimt – Canvas Giclée Print
Impressionism and Japonisme: How Japan Has Inspired Western Artists