Yamato Print House

昭和美術館 | Authentic Japanese Art

We are passionately dedicated to the preservation of the authenticity and history of Japanese art. Every piece of artwork here has been handmade and digitally scanned as many of the physical copies are too old to be touched. Overtime, many of the pieces have been professionally retouched while preserving the aesthetic and imperfections of the original.Join us in paying respect to the rich history and traditions of the Edo period by observing the captivating work created by renowned artists of that time.

Celebrating Imperfection

Due to the age and nature of the medium there are imperfections and warping with many of the prints which are historically cherished in Japanese culture.侘寂 | Wabi-sabi refers to the traditional philosophy stemming from Zen Buddhism that there lies beauty within imperfection and impermanence. By embracing the natural cycles of growth and decay with an emphasis on authenticity over perfection, one can find themselves more in tune with life and nature. A cracked bowl or worn tools often carry memories and with them, a unique charm.While many of the prints have been lightly restored or recolored, extra care was taken to preserve the integrity of the original work. This way the natural cycle is merely prolonged, allowing future generations to witness the same aging process.

History of Ukiyo-e

Ukiyo-e or, "Pictures of the Floating World", was originally a groundbreaking new art form that focused on everyday life and popular culture, making art more appealing to commoners. Many of the themes were centered around relatable experiences like seeing a play, the beautiful performers, sumo wrestling matches, and scenic views. This was a stark contrast to typical fine art that focused on elite subjects and aristocracy. Considered a commercial art form even at its origins, artists sought to capture the vibrant, dynamic culture of the time period, creating a visual record of popular trends at the time. By capturing the styles of the time and mass producing the images, publishers were able to make art widely accessible for the first time in human history. A beautiful, fully detailed wooden print at the time would cost no more than a meal for a commoner, oh how times have changed. Once the art style made its way to the Western world, it caused a spark, starting revolutionary movements that would influence artists such as Monet and Van Gogh.Even today, the influence of Ukiyo-e can be seen in the foundation of manga, anime, and other art forms through the use of bold lines, flat colors, stylized figures, and unique design.The button below will take you to the full gallery. Please take your time to find a piece of artwork that truly speaks to you, as each featured artist has their own style and story to tell in each piece. These are perfect for printing or to simply serve as inspiration for your next creation.

Featured Gallery

Click on any of the artwork to learn more or purchase a digital master