The Hundred Aspects of the Moon

The Hundred Aspects of the Moon (Tsuki Hyakushi) is a celebrated ukiyo-e series created by the renowned Japanese artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi between 1885 and 1892. The series consists of 100 woodblock prints, each depicting a story, scene, or historical figure related to the moon. Drawing inspiration from Japanese folklore, noh drama, classical literature, and historical events, Yoshitoshi masterfully combines traditional aesthetics with emotional depth. Each print incorporates the moon as a central motif, symbolizing themes like beauty, impermanence, and spiritual enlightenment. The series is not only a showcase of Yoshitoshi’s artistic evolution but also a reflection of the cultural and societal changes during Japan's Meiji era. Tsuki Hyakushi is widely regarded as one of Yoshitoshi’s greatest achievements, bridging traditional ukiyo-e and the emerging modern art movement of his time.