One hundred aspects of the moon: Japanese woodblock prints by Yoshitoshi

Abstract

Yoshitoshi (1839-92) was the last great woodblock print master of the Ukiyo-e tradition, and 'One Hundred Aspects of the Moon' is regarded as his greatest achievement. The only complete set of the series, in the collection of the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe, provides for the exquisite reproductions in this popular book on 19th century Japan's most mainstream art amusement. Yoshitoshi was born in the city of Edo (Tokyo) shortly before Japan's violent transformations from a medieval to a modern society. He was keenly interested in preserving traditional Japanese culture against the inclusions of modernism, and his prints celebrate the glory of Japan in its mythology, literature, history, the warrior culture, and fine woodblock print tradition. This book will appeal to a broad audience of connoisseurs as well as the many who cultivate an interest in Japanese art.