What is Ukiyo-e?
The word ukiyo-e has Buddhist origins, meaning floating world expressing the transitory nature of life. In the distinctly materialistic age of the Edo period (1614-1868), the word took on new connotations. Instead of a spiritual phrase, it became a slogan for people to seize the day and enjoy the present. The word ukiyo-e also refers to the woodblock prints which were developed at this time. The most frequent subjects are of beautiful courtesans and famous actors of the kabuki theater. As time went on, artists like Hokusai and Hiroshige explored more diverse subject matter. Landscapes, very often famous landmarks like Mount Fuji and the views from the main roadways around Japan became popular. Ukiyo-e prints also played a part in influencing western artists, most notably, the Impressionists. As many of these artists were interested in exotic artifacts and became collectors of Japanese exports, what they found most interesting was the wrapping that these objects arrived in. Many prints
