Utagawa Kuniyoshi

Utagawa Kuniyoshi was a Japanese artist and one of the great masters of the woodblock print. Born in Edo, now Tokyo, in 1797, he became famous for bold, energetic prints of legendary warriors, fierce battles, and heroes from history and myth. His dynamic designs, full of action and drama, made him hugely popular in his day.

He also had a playful, inventive side, producing prints of cats, comic scenes, and clever images that slipped criticism of the authorities past the censors. His imaginative range, from ghosts and monsters to everyday humor, was remarkable. Kuniyoshi's vivid, spirited prints have made him a favorite of collectors and a lasting influence on later Japanese and Western art.