Picture of Cameleon Ukiyo-e

Origin Story

One day, a young artist named Yoshu was walking through the streets of Kyoto. He was looking for inspiration for his next painting. Suddenly, he heard a noise that made him turn his head and made him stop short. It was the sound of a chameleon hopping on a low branch near the ground. The chameleon looked beautiful with its bright, shimmering colors, and Yoshu was immediately inspired by this sight.


He hurriedly took out his sketchbook and began to sketch the portrait of the little reptile. Once he was done, he felt great satisfaction looking at his finished work. He knew this portrait would be the perfect subject for his next ukiyo-e - a traditional Japanese painting done on wood or thin paper called a "floating image" or "ephemeral image" because it is meant to be discarded after serving as a model for paintings. more permanent copies printed on fabrics or other durable materials.


Yoshu spent the next few months developing his painting and perfecting every detail so that it was perfect: the vibrant colors of the chameleon contrasting against the drab background; the way he rests quietly on a branch; the calm but curious expression he displays as he observes the artist looking at him… All these elements contributed to creating a unique atmosphere that Yoshu thoroughly savored as he worked tirelessly to finish his canvas on schedule. to exhibit at the local merchant specializing in this kind of handicrafts..


When the day came, Yoshu proudly presented his painting entitled "Camouflage" to the dealer who could not hold back a compliment: "This work is admirable! You are very talented." When the work was displayed to potential customers, it was a huge success and quickly became very popular with many copies sold all over Japan. Even today, there are original copies of this ukiyo-e signed by Yoshu hanging from many collectors passionate about this ancestral artistic genre so rich in Japanese history and culture.