Exhibit Catalog to the Morris County Historical Society's "Out of the Closet" Exhibition

Japanese Prints

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Ukiyo-e Woodblock Prints: An Introduction
 
The Morris County Historical Society's collection of Japanese woodblock prints are of the Ukiyo-e ("floating world pictures") style, dating to the mid-19th century. They are referred to as "floating world" prints because they represent a blossoming urban culture that was like a world unto itself - a world full of fleeting, pleasurable moments. Ukiyo-e art usually revolves around the theatrical and pleasure quarters of the city, as many of these prints depict kabuki actors and geishas. The kabuki actor prints, which show actors dressed up for their roles, often served as advertisements for plays.
 
 
 
 
 

Kunisada I

Kunisada II

Hiroshige II

Ink Painting

Kuniyoshi

Yoshitoshi

Yoshifuji