Sumiyoshi no meigetsu — History & Facts
In Sumiyoshi no meigetsu, Tsukioka Yoshitoshi presents a tranquil night scene illuminated by the moon. The colors are soft and muted, featuring shades of blue and gray that evoke a serene atmosphere. Figures are depicted in traditional Japanese attire, engaged in quiet activities, surrounded by nature.
The setting suggests a peaceful moment in a rural landscape, with trees and water reflecting the moonlight. This woodblock print showcases Yoshitoshi's skill in capturing detail and emotion. The intricate patterns of the clothing and the delicate lines of the landscape demonstrate his mastery of the ukiyo-e technique. The use of color and light creates depth, drawing the viewer into the scene.
The print is a fine example of Yoshitoshi's ability to blend realism with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Tsukioka Yoshitoshi was one of the last great masters of ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese woodblock prints. He created Sumiyoshi no meigetsu during a time when traditional art forms were being challenged by Western influences. An interesting fact about this work is that it reflects Yoshitoshi's deep appreciation for nature and the changing seasons, a common theme in his oeuvre.
This piece exemplifies his unique style, merging historical themes with contemporary elements.
More Artworks by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Frost fills the air and the autumn air is still/lines of returning geese cross the moon in the third hour-Kenshin, from the series Twelve Aspects of the Moon
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Fukami Jikyu in maanlicht
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Looking Shy; The Manners of a Young Girl of the Meiji Era
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

The Lonely House on Adachi Moor in Northern Japan
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Inaba Mountain moon (Inabayama no tsuki)
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Omori Hikoshichi
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

One Hundred Aspects of the Moon
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

The Saga Incident
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Bon Festival Moon (Bon no tsuki)
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Preparing to Take a Stroll; The Wife of a Nobleman of the Meiji Period
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi
More Genre Scene Art

Banquet of the Officers of the St George Civic Guard
Frans Hals

Rembrandt and Saskia in the Scene of the Prodigal Son
Rembrandt van Rijn

Bal du moulin de la Galette
Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Quadrille at the Moulin Rouge
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

A Burial at Ornans
Gustave Courbet

When Will You Marry?
Paul Gauguin
