Meiji-Era Triptych of the Battle of Pyongyang in the Sino-Japanese War, 1894
€ 1 700
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1894
Mapmaker / artist
Ogata Gekkō, Japan, 1894
Technique
Color woodblock print (ōban triptych)
Sheet size
37 × 75 cm (14.6 × 29.5 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14164-1A, 1B, 1C
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Overall in good condition with strong color and impression. Mild toning and light handling signs consistent with age. Some small creases and minor wear along the margins. No major tears or losses. Three separate ōban sheets.
About this sheet
Meiji-Era Triptych of the Battle of Pyongyang in the Sino-Japanese War, 1894
This striking 1894 woodblock triptych by Ogata Gekko (1859–1920) depicts the dramatic Battle of Pyongyang during the First Sino-Japanese War. Published by Takegawa Risaburō, the composition shows Imperial Japanese troops advancing with bayonets drawn, formations tightly coordinated and driven forward by the rising-sun regimental banner. In contrast, Qing soldiers retreat in disarray, their bright pink and blue uniforms illuminated against explosions and heavy gunsmoke. In the background, a Chinese fortress burns, intensifying the sense of immediacy and momentum.
Gekko was among the most influential Meiji-period battle illustrators, celebrated for his ability to combine traditional ukiyo-e color blocks with modern military reportage. This triptych, referenced in Chaikin (no. 34, illustrated p.142), demonstrates his characteristic blend of narrative clarity and expressive movement. Each sheet is rich with detail—from the ornate officer uniforms and weaponry to the swirling smoke that fills the wooded landscape.
War prints (sensō-e) from the 1894–95 conflict are increasingly sought after, especially complete triptychs in good color. This example has preserved the original drama and energy that made such works popular news images in Meiji Japan. A powerful piece for collectors of ukiyo-e, military history, or Meiji-era visual culture.
Framing Tips: A dark wood or black lacquer frame highlights the rich reds and deep blacks of the Japanese uniforms. Consider a single long mount to display the triptych together, or individual frames hung closely as a set. Warm off-white or light cream matting enhances the period paper tone. Museum glass is recommended to preserve color vibrancy.
