Chinese Ming Classic Novels and Japanization in Ukiyo-e Art

Authors

  • Pancheewa Butrach Assistant Professor, Chinese Division, Department of Eastern Language, Faculty of Humanities, Chiang Mai University https://orcid.org/0009-0003-8981-2645
  • Piyasaeng Chantarawongpaisarn Professor, Art Theory Department, Faculty of Painting, Sculpture and Graphic Arts, Silpakorn University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69598/sbjfa277764

Keywords:

Chinese Classic Novel, Ming Dynasty, Ukiyo-e, Japanization, Adaptation

Abstract

This qualitative research aimed to study Chinese classic novels in the Ming dynasty and the adaptation in Ukiyo-e art as Japanization. The objective of the article was to study about style and content adaptation from imaginative representation in Ming’s classic novels to Ukiyo-e woodblock printings in the 17th–19th century. The research analyzed two Chinese classic novels, “The Romance of Three Kingdoms” and “Tales of the Water Margin,” through the works of five Ukiyo-e artists: Katsushika Hokusai, Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, Utagawa Kunisada, and Toyohara Kunichika. The study found that Ming-novel-themed concepts in Japanese Ukiyo-e art not only followed in text translation but also were conducted by identity process and imagination of the artist. The combination and adaptation of different cultures led to Japanization. Style and content adaptation represent Japanese society in the Edo era. Cultural transmission of Chinese origin under the Japanization process turned into a new text. The artists were not strictly based on original content. There was the adaptation of artworks to fit in with artists’ and social popularity, based on aesthetic creativity by Ukiyo-e artists.

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References

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Published

24-06-2025

How to Cite

Butrach, P. ., & Chantarawongpaisarn, P. (2025). Chinese Ming Classic Novels and Japanization in Ukiyo-e Art. Silpa Bhirasri (Journal of fine arts), 13(1), 141–166. https://doi.org/10.69598/sbjfa277764

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Section

Research Articles