Ukiyo e意思

"Ukiyo-e" (浮世絵) is a genre of Japanese woodblock prints and paintings that flourished during the Edo period (1603-1868). The term "ukiyo" literally means "floating world" in Japanese, and it refers to the fleeting, transient aspects of life, particularly the entertainment districts, the pleasure quarters, and the worldly aspects of life that were enjoyed by the urban population of Edo (now Tokyo).

Ukiyo-e prints typically feature subjects such as beautiful women (bijin-ga), kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, landscapes (famous views of places like Mount Fuji), historical tales, and scenes from everyday life. They were widely popular and affordable, allowing even the common people to enjoy these works of art.

Artists like Hokusai (known for his "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji" series, including the famous "The Great Wave off Kanagawa") and Hiroshige (noted for his "Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido" series) are among the most famous ukiyo-e artists. Their works have had a significant influence on Western artists, particularly the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists.