Picture of a Procession of Foreigners at Yokohama 1861

Utagawa Yoshikazu made this woodblock print called “Picture of a Procession of Foreigners at Yokohama”. It captures a moment during a pivotal period in Japanese history. After centuries of isolation, Japan opened its doors to foreign trade in the mid-19th century, and Yokohama became a key port city. Yoshikazu’s print offers a glimpse into this changing world, depicting a parade of Westerners, likely merchants or diplomats, marching through the streets. The American flag prominently displayed is a reminder of the United States' influence in initiating this new era of trade relations. The artist’s portrayal reflects a mix of curiosity and perhaps a degree of cultural distance. There's a formal quality to the procession, an almost theatrical presentation of foreignness. As you look at the faces in the crowd, consider what it must have been like for the Japanese people to witness this influx of Westerners, with their unfamiliar customs and clothing. The work preserves a specific moment in time that speaks to the complexities of cultural exchange and the negotiation of identity in a rapidly globalizing world.