Typical of graphic art in Japan are the marvelous Ukiyo-e prints. At one time regarded as "decadent," the colorful portraits of beauties moving around the demi-monde and of actors performing in the popular kabuki theatres catch the spirit of the new life that developed in the major Japanese cities from the seventeenth century onward. In this stunning book, the author traces the fascinating story of how Japanese art flourished under a number of aristocratic and military regimes, with graphic art reaching a wider audience as a result of the new printing techniques. The selections of over 110 full color prints reproduced here were chosen to demonstrate exactly the range and the craft of the Japanese engravers. Some of the wood cuts illustrated books of poems, tales of warriors, and play scripts; others took their part in popular picture books celebrating such eternal themes as the beauty of women and the return to natures. Each illustration is accompanied by helpful comments about the artist and subject. A glossary of terms rounds off this book-- the complete guide to a most important and beautiful art form -- Provided by publisher.