Shin-Hanga

Conclusion

Though the subject matter of the shin-hanga artists was in many ways a revitalization of ukiyo-e themes – generally limited to scenery and landscapes, townscapes, flora and fauna, and actors – the artists’ naturalistic treatment of these themes reflects a change in the overall artistic environment in Japan, as well as an exposure to Western art. Shin-hanga prints also reflected the evolving art market. While many Japanese during the early twentieth century desired to retain traditional Japanese culture and values in their art against the spread of Westernization, shin-hanga instead developed into an art form that aimed to meet Western demands. This is clearly seen in the prints of both urban cityscapes and the countryside, all of which are idealized visions and not true reflections of modern Japan.

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