{"title":"Josephine Smit","description":"\u003cp\u003eWelcome to our collection dedicated to Josephine Smit, a dynamic voice in the realm of Arts \u0026amp; Culture literature. Josephine Smit has captivated readers with her insightful exploration into the intricate world of traditional Japanese art forms, with a particular focus on Ukiyo-e. Her works are renowned for unraveling the cultural and artistic riddles that surround this fascinating genre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAmong her standout contributions is \u003cem\u003eThe Riddles of Ukiyo-e\u003c\/em\u003e, a book that serves as both an eye-opener and a guide to understanding Japan's iconic woodblock prints. In this captivating work, Smit combines meticulous research with engaging storytelling, taking readers on a journey through the rich history and cultural influences that shaped Ukiyo-e and its enduring legacy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eJosephine Smit’s writing is noted for its clarity and depth, making complex subjects accessible and enjoyable. Whether you're a student of art, a collector of cultural history, or simply curious about the world of Ukiyo-e, her books offer a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be explored.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDiscover more about the enigmatic world of Japanese art through the lens of Josephine Smit’s eloquent prose. Delve into her works and deepen your appreciation for the exquisite interplay of art and culture.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"the-riddles-of-ukiyo-e-by-josephine-smit-9789493039902","title":"The Riddles of Ukiyo-e","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWomen and men—strong, proud, tragic or beautiful—from the heyday (1765-1865) of Japanese printmaking are the subject of this book. \u003cem\u003eThe Riddles of Ukiyo-e\u003c\/em\u003e seeks to dig below the surface of the prints to describe the often subtle iconography employed in these masterful creations by the most famous artists of their time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt begins with Suzuki Harunobu's subdued and introverted scenes of women seated on verandas. The book then moves on to the spectacular 'big face' (okubi-e) portraits of prostitutes and Kabuki actors by artists like Kitagawa Utamaro, Toshusai Sharaku, and Utagawa Kunimasa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFrail 'streetwalkers', forced by circumstance into the lowest ranks of prostitution, are transformed into elegant beauties, obscuring their tragic existence. The spectacle of heroes from Japan's rich mythological and pseudo-historical past crowd the printed sheet. Stern-faced actors drawn by the confident hands of Utagawa Toyokuni and his pupil Kunisada demonstrate the economy of line and powerful expression of the woodblock medium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEach print is explored in the finest detail in order to explain the riddles of Ukiyo-e—the intriguing and captivating mode of visual expression that would have such a profound influence on Western art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Thames and Hudson (Australia) Pty Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47341392232684,"sku":"9789493039902","price":100.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/27606093485567.jpg?v=1772190906"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.co.nz\/collections\/josephine-smit.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}