Street Scene in Ikao, Japan 1857 - 1903

Robert Frederick Blum created this watercolor painting titled "Street Scene in Ikao, Japan." The artwork depicts a bustling street, offering a glimpse into daily life in Japan through the eyes of an American artist. Blum’s choice of subject matter reflects the growing Western interest in Japanese culture during the late 19th century, a period marked by increased trade and cultural exchange between Japan and the West. This interest was supported by Western museums. Blum uses the watercolor medium to convey the fleeting, informal qualities of everyday life. But it’s important to consider the politics of this imagery. How does Blum represent Japanese people and their environment? Is it an accurate portrayal, or does it reflect Western preconceptions and fantasies about Japan? To explore these questions, we might consult travel accounts, photographs, and other visual materials from the period, or consider the institutional framework through which the artist’s work was produced and consumed.