Print in Japan

5.1.1 Print in Japan

Description

Quick Overview

This section explores the introduction and evolution of print culture in Japan, emphasizing the impact of Buddhist missionaries and the development of hand-printing technology.

Standard

The section delves into the origins of print in Japan, initiated by Chinese Buddhist missionaries, highlighting the significance of early printed works, such as the Diamond Sutra, and the flourishing of a diverse reading culture in urban centers like Edo during the late 18th century.

Detailed

Print in Japan

In this section, we investigate how print culture began in Japan, primarily through the influence of Chinese Buddhist missionaries around AD 768-770.

Key Developments in Japanese Printing

  • The Oldest Printed Book: The Buddhist Diamond Sutra, printed in AD 868, remains one of the earliest examples of Japanese print materials. This work included six sheets of text along with woodcut illustrations.
  • Medium of Printing: Besides books, photographs, playing cards, and even paper money were printed in medieval Japan, showcasing the wide range of materials produced through this technology.

Flourishing Urban Culture

  • Edo’s Cultural Scene: In the late 18th century, Edo (now Tokyo) experienced a vibrant urban culture where books became significantly more affordable and accessible. Genres published ranged from literature on music, tea ceremonies, to anthologies that made reading a leisure activity among diverse groups, including women and merchants.
  • Key Figures: Esteemed artists such as Kitagawa Utamaro emerged, promoting a unique art form called ukiyo, which depicted ordinary life and sensibilities. His works traveled internationally, influencing Western artists.

Conclusion

The advent of printing transformed Japanese society by catering to the tastes and interests of a broader audience, resulting in an enriched cultural landscape. The exchange between artistry and print not only preserved literature but also fostered new forms of narrative and expression among everyday people.

Key Concepts

  • Buddhist Influence: The introduction of print technology in Japan was driven by Buddhist missionaries, greatly impacting cultural transmission.

  • Diversity of Material: The types of printed materials included religious texts, literary works, playing cards, and textiles.

  • Cultural Flourishment: Urban centers like Edo experienced a cultural bloom in literature, making it accessible to a broader demographic.

Memory Aids

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • In Japan where prints did unfold, stories of life began to be told.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Once upon a time in the vibrant city of Edo, prints transformed ordinary moments into stunning artwork that influenced generations.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • Remember 'P.E.A.' - Prints from Edo Awaken culture!

🎯 Super Acronyms

B.J.P - Buddhist influence, Japanese prints, Edo culture.

Examples

  • The Diamond Sutra is considered the oldest example of printed material in Japan.

  • Kitagawa Utamaro's ukiyo prints depicted various aspects of daily life and urban culture.

Glossary of Terms

  • Term: Buddhist Diamond Sutra

    Definition:

    The oldest printed book in Japan, originating around AD 868, featuring religious text and illustrations.

  • Term: Ukioy

    Definition:

    An art form representing the transient aspects of life, popularized by artists such as Kitagawa Utamaro.

  • Term: Edo (Tokyo)

    Definition:

    The historical city that became a cultural and economic center in Japan.