The term Ukiyo-e means images from the floating world. The word Ukiyo initially referred to the Buddhist idea that life and the material world were ephemeral. It seems rather ironic that the term referring to the Buddhist philosophy of not becoming overly attached to the material world would then be used in this art that is very much about the material world. The Ukiyo-e images of the floating world were celebrations of the joys of life for these newly wealthy people.

Here are the artists and images I recommend looking at to better understand Ukiyo-e.

Hokusai - The Great Wave Off of Kanagawa

Toyoharu - Perspective Pictures of Places in Japan

Harunobu - Two Lovers Beneath an Umbrella in the Snow

Hiroshige - Bamboo Yards Kyobashi Bridge

Hokusai - Peonies and Canary

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