Kobayashi Kiyochika

Kobayashi Kiyochika, born in Edo (present-day Tokyo) in 1847, was a Japanese artist known for his role in the transition period of Japanese art. He lived at a time of great change as Japan opened up from an isolated, feudal society to a modern power. Kiyochika is often referred to as the "last ukiyo-e master" and the "father of modern Japanese landscape." His works reflect the conflict between traditional Japanese aesthetics and the influences of Western art that came to the country with the Meiji Restoration.

Kiyochika's art is characterized by a unique use of light and shadow, inspired by Western techniques that he taught himself. He was fascinated by the changes in Japanese society and landscape brought about by industrialization and urbanization. His works document this transformation in a way that is both nostalgic and critical. Kiyochika used traditional woodcut techniques to depict modern themes, creating a bridge between the old and new worlds of Japan.

Interesting fact:

Kobayashi Kiyochika was not only active as a painter, but also as a political cartoonist. In the 1880s he created a series of satires that commented on Japan's political and social changes. These works demonstrate his keen eye for social ills and his talent for conveying complex ideas with humor and irony.

Important Artworks & Images by Kobayashi Kiyochika:

1. "Ryogoku Bridge at Night" (1881)
2. "Fireworks over the Sumida River" (1881)
3. "Full Moon over Takanawa Harbor" (1882)
4. "Snow at Benten Shrine in Shiba" (1879)
5. "View of Shiba Coast" (1879)
6. "The Great Bridge in Yokohama" (1874)
7. "Kanda Myojin Shrine" (1882)
8. "Asakusa Kinryuzan Temple in the Snow" (1881)
9. "Moonlight in Saruwaka-machi" (1880)
10. "The Battle of Kawanakajima" (1890)