Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Art Business

First Advisor

Matthew Nichols

Second Advisor

Judith Prowda

Abstract

This thesis discusses the phenomenon of Japonisme in Paris, how it manifested in the market, its accompanying theoretical discourse, and its role in fostering artistic innovation. In 1853, Japan officially opened its borders for trade with the West, resulting in an unparalleled influx of objects and artwork from Japan. This generated a widespread fascination with Japanese material culture, culminating in the phenomenon known as Japonisme. Among the imported items, ukiyo-e woodblock prints or ‘images of the floating world,’ became very significant. Exhibited widely across Paris, their peculiar themes and unique formal qualities prompted theoretical discourse and inspired shifts in artistic conventions. One of the most popular ukiyo-e artists was Kitagawa Utamaro, renowned for depicting women during their daily activities, especially those of the Yoshiwara district, Edo’s pleasure quarters. Utamaro’s work was perceived simultaneously as exotic and relevant to modern Parisian lifestyle, resonating deeply with audiences. The artist’s unique compositional style and alluring themes influenced several artists, including Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, who are analysed in the thesis.

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