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.
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