by Beisaku (1864 - 1903)
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 - Great image from the Sino-Japanese War showing the first Japanese soldier to mount Pyongyang Gate during the Battle of Pyongyang in Korea. He stands atop the stone walls at upper right as troops below keeping firing upon the heavy entrance gate. Clouds of smoke dot the sky as evening falls, and orange flames rage from a bonfire at lower left. Chinese flags still flutter above the ramparts. A wonderfully atmospheric image with beautiful soft shading. The Boston Museum of Fine Arts has this image in its collection.
Artist - Beisaku (1864 - 1903)
Image Size - 13 7/8" x 27 7/8" + margins as shown
Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. Light diagonal folds at corners. Slight toning and soiling, a few light creases and small marks. Please note: due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled.
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