Kuniyoshi was born on January 1, 1798, the son of a silk-dyer, Yanagiya Kichiyemon, originally named Yoshisaburō. Apparently he assisted his father's business as a pattern designer, and some have suggested that this experience influenced his rich use of color and textile patterns in prints.
What were the themes Kuniyoshi used in his prints?
The range of Kuniyoshi's subjects included many genres: landscapes, beautiful women, Kabuki actors, cats, and mythical animals. He is known for depictions of the battles of legendary samurai heroes. His artwork incorporated aspects of Western representation in landscape painting and caricature.
Who is Utagawa?
Utagawa Kuniyoshi, original name Igusa Magosaburō, (born January 1, 1798, Kanda, Edo [now Tokyo]—died , Edo), Japanese painter and printmaker of the ukiyo-e (“pictures of the floating world”) movement.Jan 1, 2022
What is Utagawa Kuniyoshi known for?
Japanese, 1797–1861 Utagawa Kuniyoshi is one of the great ukiyo-e woodblock print masters of the late Edo period in the 19th century, renowned for dynamic and often violent prints of monsters, demons, ghosts, and samurai heroes.
What is Japanese woodblock called?
ukiyo-e
How is woodblock printing made?
In woodblock printing, an image is carved in reverse on a piece of wood, leaving the image's outline on the wood, and the block is then inked and printed on a substance like paper or fabric. It's a time-consuming process, especially if you want to add more than one color during the printing process.
What is the purpose of woodblock printing?
Originally, woodblock prints were mainly used for the spread of religious texts and books regarding medicine, beliefs, and auspicious charms. However, woodblock prints advanced more items like art and fashion which are still relevant in some modern art themes.