"Japan 1947: Caricature Number One" is a pointed political and social statement made in the immediate postwar period — a caricature addressed to the specific conditions of Japan under Allied occupation, beginning its reconstruction from the devastation of defeat. The caricature mode allowed Onchi to comment more directly on contemporary conditions than his abstract or portrait work permitted, using exaggeration and satire to address the absurdities and injustices of the postwar situation. This print represents his commitment to printmaking as a form of social and political engagement as well as artistic expression.
Woodblock print
1928
Color lithograph
1930
Color lithograph
1948
Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Japan 1947: Caricature Number One was created by Onchi Koshiro (恩地孝四郎) in 1947.
Japan 1947: Caricature Number One depicts urban scenes, figures, and animals.
