Foreign Words (Ikoku kotoba) 1860

“Foreign Words (Ikoku kotoba)” is a woodblock print by Utagawa Yoshiiku, a prominent Japanese artist of the late Edo and Meiji periods. The print, created in 1860, depicts a Western man on horseback, showcasing the growing interest in foreigners during a time of significant cultural exchange. Yoshiiku's masterful use of bold colors and intricate details captures the curiosity and novelty of this encounter, revealing the impact of westernization on Japanese society. The print is a striking example of ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art that captured everyday life, including historical events and social transformations. This artwork, now held at the Art Institute of Chicago, is a fascinating window into the cultural shifts of 19th-century Japan.