RESERVED

Yoshikazu Utagawa (Active 1850s-1870s).

Western forces landing at Yokohama.

Yokohama, Enshuya Hikobei, 1861.

Japanese woodblock print in three parts. (L) 35.6 x 24, (C) 35.6 x 24, (R) 35.7 x 23.9 cm.

This vibrant woodblock print by Yoshikazu Utagawa portrays the arrival of Western military forces in Yokohama in 1861, during Japan's pivotal transition from isolation to increased foreign interaction. In the centre of the composition, American soldiers are prominently depicted, holding the American flag and standing in military formation. Surrounding them are troops from other Western nations, including Britain, the Netherlands, Italy, and Russia, distinguished by their uniforms and flags. In the background, ships arrive in the harbour, symbolizing the strong naval presence of these foreign powers.

As part of the Yokohama-e genre, which documented Japan's initial encounters with the West, this work captures the fascination and curiosity of the Japanese toward foreign customs and military power. The central placement of the American soldiers underscores their significance in Japan’s early international relations, particularly following Commodore Perry’s arrival a few years earlier. Through its bold colours and detailed composition, the print reflects the profound cultural and political changes underway in Japan during the mid-19th century, as the country opened to modernization and global trade.

Condition: some minor browning and staining and a couple pinholes, otherwise in very good condition.