Masterpieces of Japanese Prints

Book excerpt: An illustrated survey of Japanese prints at London's Victoria and Albert Museum. Each colour plate is supported by notes together with standard specifications and provenance. The book also includes introductory chapters on the ukiyo-e genre, and the history and character of the Museum's collection. Ever since Japan opened its doors to the West in the latter half of the nineteenth century, Westerners have been fascinated by the exquisite art forms that flourished during the previous two hundred years of self-imposed isolation. Among the most