Japanese Woodblock Prints

Japanese Woodblock Prints by Andreas Marks presents the most exceptional ukiyoe masterpieces from 1710-1925, sourced from the finest impressions in museums and private collections worldwide. This comprehensive TASCHEN publication explores the breathtaking evolution of Japanese color prints that transformed ordinary subjects into extraordinary art. From stunning landscapes that capture nature’s sublime beauty to the intimate world of erotica, from supernatural ghosts and demons that haunt the living to the glamorous portraits of sumo wrestlers and kabuki actors elevated to rock star status, these woodblock prints revolutionized visual culture. Marks expertly guides readers through over two centuries of ukiyoe artistry, revealing how Japanese publishers and artists perfected the art of color printing to create works of unparalleled beauty and technical innovation. The book showcases the diverse subjects and genres that made Japanese woodblock prints internationally celebrated, from the floating world of entertainment districts to the spiritual realm of folklore. Each print demonstrates the remarkable skill of Japanese craftsmen who transformed simple wood and ink into complex, multi-layered compositions. Discover the artistic legacy that influenced Western impressionists and continues to captivate art lovers today. Add this definitive collection to your library.