Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861) Original Woodblock print / Kabuki Actor Gunhachi

Utagawa Kuniyoshi was a ukiyo-e artist active during the late Edo period. His unique style earned him nicknames like the eccentric painter. Demonstrating exceptional artistic talent from childhood, Kuniyoshi became a disciple of Utagawa Toyokuni at age 15. He excelled at warrior paintings, earning the title Kuniyoshi the Warrior Painter. While creating muscular warrior illustrations, […]

Tanigami Kônan Woodblock Print c. 1917

Washi is a traditional, durable Japanese handmade paper typically made from the inner-bark fibers of the kozo (paper mulberry), gampi, or mitsumata plants. Konan’s woodblock prints reflect the abundance and nuances of light, shade, and Western perspective. His works are considered part of the Shin Hanga or “new prints” movement. Each woodblock print was folded […]