Nichiren Calms a Storm in Kakuda - Utagawa Kuniyoshi - Framed art Print

Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861), a master of the ukiyo-e style of woodblock prints and painting, significantly contributed to the Japanese art scene. His works were diverse, covering genres such as landscapes, beautiful women, kabuki actors, cats, and mythical creatures. He was particularly known for his vivid depiction of samurai battles and the incorporation of Western techniques into his pieces.

Kuniyoshi was no stranger to shocking his audience. His works often featured a vibrant blend of blood, gore, and subverted traditional taste. Always striving for vibrancy and animation, his artwork catered to the tastes of everyday folk. He achieved this effect with images of monsters and ghosts, arguably laying the groundwork for a new Japanese art genre.

Breaking from traditional, subdued Heian-period depictions of the supernatural, Kuniyoshi's art featured dynamic, colourful scenes of heroes and monstrous creatures. Some scholars even see his work as a precursor to modern manga.

As a respected teacher, Kuniyoshi cultivated many talented students such as Yoshitoshi, Yoshiiku, and Yoshitora. These apprentices initially imitated his style before developing their own unique approaches. His protégé, Yoshitoshi, is considered the "last master" of the Japanese woodblock print.