LINE Marks Identity in Japanese

By Sharaku, 1794

Portrait of a famous Kabuki actor from the Edo period (1600-1868). This “ukiyo-e” woodblock print was made more than 200 years ago. One can see at a glance that it is Japanese. It has no shadows and features outline.

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Chōjū-giga, literally, “Animal Caricatures”

“Animals Wrestling” is perhaps the first cartoon from 12th to 13th Century.

It is a lively expression that depends on powerful line.

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Studio Ghibli, “Jiburi” Animation

Japanese “MANGA” is now famous all over the world. Studio Ghibli continues the traditional way of representing pictures with a strong emphasis on line.

What began with the brushstrokes of calligraphy continues today. “LINE” marks Identity in Japanese Art.