From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, Japan was a vital world centre for postcard art. This volume presents 350 colour examples of these cards, culled from the Leonard Lauder collection. Essays by leading scholars of Japanese art and culture highlight the design, development and cultural function of these works.

Authoritative essays by leading scholars of Japanese art and culture, plus a statement by the collector himself, highlight the design, development, and cultural function of these rarely studied, but highly influential and visually exciting, expressions of graphic genius.

Contents: Director's Foreword
Collector's Preface
The Art of the Japanese Postcard
An Opening into a Wider World
Postcards, Commerce, and Creativity in Japan 1904-1940
Catalogue - Postcard History, The Russo-Japanese War, Artist Cards, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, The World of Humor, Advertising, New Year's Greetings
Postcards Observed: Notes on Printing Techniques
List of Illustrations
Artists Biographies
Acknowledgments.