About this sheet
Emperor Meiji Silver Wedding Jubilee, Nobukazu Japanese Triptych, 1894
An impressive original Japanese color woodblock triptych by Yosai Nobukazu depicting the grand celebrations held in honor of the twenty-fifth wedding anniversary of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. Published during the Meiji period in 1894, this vibrant composition records one of the most important imperial celebrations of late nineteenth-century Japan.
The scene illustrates the Aoyama Military Review, a ceremonial event organized as part of the Silver Wedding Jubilee festivities. Mounted officers in Western-style military uniforms ride through a richly decorated parade ground illuminated by countless lanterns and patriotic banners. Military musicians perform while elegantly dressed spectators observe the procession. The central figure of the mounted officer and the extensive military pageantry symbolize Japan's emergence as a modern world power during the Meiji era.
The print beautifully captures the remarkable transformation of Japan following the Meiji Restoration. Traditional Japanese customs and courtly ceremony are combined with European military uniforms, cavalry formations, and modern state symbolism. Nobukazu was among the foremost chroniclers of this period and became renowned for documenting imperial ceremonies, military events, and the modernization of Japanese society. His works are valued today both as artistic achievements and as important historical documents.
Executed in the traditional nishiki-e woodblock technique, the triptych displays the strong colors and dynamic composition that characterize the finest Meiji-period prints. The abundance of red lanterns, ceremonial costumes, cavalry horses, and festive decorations creates a lively and visually engaging image. Surviving examples of imperial commemorative triptychs are increasingly sought after by collectors of Japanese prints, military history, and Meiji-era art.
This is an authentic nineteenth-century Japanese woodblock print and not a later reproduction.
Condition Report:
Three loose sheets forming a complete triptych. Some creasing and age-related wear throughout. Dampstaining visible in areas with associated bleeding of red pigments. General age toning and handling marks consistent with age. The print remains attractive and suitable for display despite the noted condition issues.
Framing Tips:
This work is ideally suited for display as a complete triptych in a single wide frame. An ivory museum-quality mat combined with a black lacquer, ebonized, or dark walnut frame would complement both the Meiji-period subject matter and the rich colors of the print. UV-protective glazing is recommended to preserve the original pigments.
Technique: Color woodblock print (nishiki-e) triptych
Maker: Yosai Nobukazu, Japan, published 1894 (Meiji Period)
