Japanese portraits

KENMU (1334-1336) "pictures of the floating world"(ukiyo-e), originated in the metropolitan culture of Edo (Tokyo) during the period of Japanese history, when the political and military power was in the hands of the shoguns, and the country was virtually isolated from the rest of the world. It is an art closely connected with the pleasures of theatres, restaurants, teahouses, geisha and courtesans in the even then very large city. Many ukiyo-e prints by artists like Utamaro and Sharaku were in fact posters, advertising theatre performances and brothels, or idol portraits of popular actors and beautiful teahouse girls.

Kuniyoshi (1797-1861)

Kunisada (1786-1864)

Sadafusa (act ca 1825-1850) via EDO no IKI Gallery , where more magnificent galleries such as this one, or, the artist's KENMU(1334-1336) 'Reflections of the Ages', and many others here, and the amazing woodblock prints of ANDO HIROSHIGE and many many more. As well as a very active message board, and an explanation and exampels of the meaning of Signatures of Ukiyo-e Artists.

want more? try L'estampe japonaise links page!