Nankin by Utagawa Yoshikazu (1848-1863) by Utagawa Yoshikazu. Archival Print on Museum Quality Matte Paper. Premium Wood Framed Wall Art. Optimised Aspect Ratio.

Utagawa Yoshikazu's "Nankin" is a captivating woodblock print that exemplifies the artist's mastery within the ukiyo-e tradition during Japan's Edo period. Yoshikazu, active between 1848 and 1863, was a prominent figure in the Utagawa school, renowned for its dynamic portrayal of everyday life, landscapes, and historical scenes. His works often reflect the vibrant cultural exchanges between Japan and the West, a theme that resonates deeply in "Nankin."

Born in Edo (now Tokyo), Yoshikazu thrived during a time of significant social and political change in Japan, marked by the end of the isolationist policies of the Tokugawa shogunate and the subsequent influx of foreign influences. This period, known as the Bakumatsu, was characterized by a burgeoning curiosity about the outside world, which Yoshikazu captured through his art.

"Nankin," a term historically used to denote the Chinese city of Nanjing, is a testament to Yoshikazu's fascination with foreign lands and cultures. The piece is a vibrant tableau, depicting imagined scenes of life in Nanjing with a blend of meticulous detail and imaginative flair. Utilizing the ukiyo-e technique of woodblock printing, Yoshikazu employed vivid colors and bold lines to create a sense of movement and life.

Philosophically, Yoshikazu embraced the ukiyo-e ethos of capturing the "floating world"—the transient beauty of urban life and its fleeting pleasures. Through "Nankin," he invites viewers to explore the exotic and unfamiliar, encouraging a dialogue between cultures.

The significance of "Nankin" lies in its reflection of Japan's transitional era and its artistic exploration of cross-cultural curiosity. The original print is housed in various collections, including esteemed institutions like the Tokyo National Museum, preserving its legacy as a cultural bridge between Japan and the wider world.

Artist Name: Utagawa Yoshikazu

Artwork Name: Nankin

Artwork Date: 1848-1863

Artist Nationality: Japanese

Artistic Style or Movement: Ukiyo-e

Genre: Woodblock Print

Period: Edo Period

Medium: Ink and color on paper

Technique: Woodblock printing

Cultural and Geographic Context: Japan

Thematic or Conceptual Context: Depiction of foreign cultures and people

Artist's Intent and Context: To portray scenes of foreign lands and cultures to a Japanese audience during a time of limited contact with the outside world

Formal elements and Composition: Use of vibrant colors

detailed line work

and composition typical of ukiyo-e prints.

Elevate your space with museum-quality fine art prints. Archival inks, oak or ash frames, sustainable materials. Ready to hang, timeless style.

Bring the elegance of timeless art into your home with this museum-grade wall print, designed for discerning collectors and art lovers alike. More than décor, this print invites moments of reflection and appreciation, transforming your space into a personal gallery.

Each print is crafted to the highest standard:

True-to-life color & detail – Printed with archival, pigment-based inks for exceptional depth and lasting vibrancy.

Premium framing options – Custom-built in natural oak or ash wood with shatterproof plexiglass for durability and elegance.

Gallery-standard materials – Archival-grade, acid-free paper with a glare-free finish.

Sustainable craftsmanship – FSC-certified papers and responsibly sourced wood frames.

Ready to hang – Delivered fully framed and display-ready.

Don’t miss your chance to own a masterpiece that endures across generations.
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