Ukiyo-e, or traditional Japanese woodblock prints, are perhaps the most defining art style of Japan. In recent years, the genre has enjoyed a bit of a revival, being used to honor musical legend David Bowie and give Mickey Mouse a new style.

Japanese artist Satsuki Nakayama (@N_32tree) shows just how creative Ukiyo-e can be used. The talented artist has released a series of illustrations that combine adorable animals and traditional Japanese food, merging them together with the artistic charm of Ukiyo-e!

Source: @N_32tree

Nakayama cleverly plays on the names of traditional Japanese food, such as "Neko Manma", a cheap dish consisting of simple ingredients such as bonito flakes or miso soup directly topped on white rice, said to resemble cat food.

Nakayama doesn't just mesh animals and food in a gorgeous style, but also plays off of Japanese food name puns--making tanuki udon, monkey tempura, Nara's famous deer as chestnuts, and sheep red bean sweets.

Source: @N_32tree

Of course, shiba inu puppy soba, mice Chinese rice bowls, and hippo eel dishes sound appetizing too!

Source: @N_32tree

And who can say no to a hamster sandwich?

Source: @N_32tree

For more amazing artwork, be sure to follow Nakayama on Twitter and Instagram, as well as her BOOTH online store.


By - Big Neko.