Fukuchi Gen’ichirō, from the Series ‘Instructive Models of Lofty Ambition’
A hand-painted replica of Kobayashi Kiyochika’s masterpiece Fukuchi Gen’ichirō, from the Series ‘Instructive Models of Lofty Ambition’, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
Fukuchi Gen’ichirō, from the Series Instructive Models of Lofty Ambition by Kobayashi Kiyochika, is a woodblock print created during the Meiji period in Japan. This artwork is part of a series produced by Kobayashi Kiyochika (1847–1915), a prominent artist known for his ukiyo-e prints and his innovative approach to depicting modernity and historical themes. The series, titled Instructive Models of Lofty Ambition (Kyōdō Risshi no Motoi), was published in 1885 and aimed to highlight notable figures from Japanese history and contemporary society who exemplified ambition, patriotism, and moral virtue.
The subject of this particular print, Fukuchi Gen’ichirō (1841–1906), was a significant figure in the Meiji era. Fukuchi was a journalist, playwright, and political thinker who played a key role in shaping public opinion during Japan's rapid modernization. He worked as the chief editor of the influential newspaper Tokyo Nichi Nichi Shimbun (now Mainichi Shimbun), where he advocated for the adoption of Western ideas and reforms while maintaining a strong sense of Japanese identity. Fukuchi was also involved in the theater world, contributing to the development of modern Japanese drama through his plays and adaptations.
Kiyochika's depiction of Fukuchi in this series reflects the artist's broader interest in capturing the spirit of the Meiji Restoration and its transformative impact on Japan. The print likely portrays Fukuchi in a dignified manner, emphasizing his intellectual and cultural contributions. Kiyochika's style in this series combines traditional woodblock printing techniques with Western-inspired elements, such as shading and perspective, which were innovative for the time.
The Instructive Models of Lofty Ambition series was intended to serve as a moral and educational tool, celebrating individuals who embodied the ideals of the Meiji government: progress, enlightenment, and national pride. By including Fukuchi Gen’ichirō in this series, Kiyochika acknowledged his influence as a thought leader and cultural figure during a pivotal era in Japanese history.
This print is an example of how art was used to document and promote the values of the Meiji period, blending traditional artistic methods with contemporary themes. It also highlights the role of individuals like Fukuchi in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of modern Japan.
