Ukiyo-e

Ukiyo-e

 

Ukiyo-e is a traditional Japanese art form that originated during the Edo period (17th to 19th century). It consists of woodblock prints and paintings that depict scenes from the "ukiyo" or "floating world," which refers to the transient pleasures of urban life, entertainment, and the theater. Ukiyo-e prints often feature beautiful landscapes, portraits of kabuki actors, courtesans, and scenes from literature and mythology. These prints are created through a meticulous process of carving the design onto a wooden block, applying ink, and then printing onto paper. Ukiyo-e played a significant role in influencing Western art during the 19th century, particularly in the Impressionist movement.