Exchange Market c. 19th century

"Exchange Market" (c. 19th century) by Kanzan is a Japanese woodblock print depicting a lively scene at a marketplace. The print is characterized by the artist's use of bold lines and vibrant colors to capture the energy and vibrancy of the scene. The composition is dynamic, with the figures appearing to be in motion and the market bustling with activity. Kanzan, known for his depictions of everyday life in Edo-period Japan, uses this work to showcase the bustling nature of the Japanese marketplace, highlighting the vibrancy and activity within a relatively small space. This print, currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is a significant example of Japanese ukiyo-e (pictures of the floating world), a genre that focused on capturing the fleeting beauty of everyday life.