Iconic figures in modern pop culture — from American rock band KISS to Captain America — have recently been making their way onto traditional Japanese artwork with the help of talented craftsmen throughout Japan. And soon, virtual idol Hatsune Miku will be joining them as traditional Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock artwork.

Illustrated and created by Hobby Stock, the new ukiyo-e painting will present Hatsune Miku not as her usual 3D hologram self, but in a beautiful, bright kimono standing in front of Mt. Fuji and Nihon-bashi during the Edo Period. It’s an altogether different look from the Hatsune Miku most people know, and a charming one at that.

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Source: Hobby Stock

This ukiyo-e was made with 21 blocks of intricately carved wood, and overprinted 45 times to achieve the perfect colors and gradation effects. Each print will be printed on high-quality washi (Japanese paper), made by the ninth generation Ichibei Iwano and designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property.

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Source: Hobby Stock

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Source: Hobby Stock

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Source: Hobby Stock

This traditional look at Japan’s famous virtual singer will be available to buy from September for 48,600 yen 485 USD. They will only be offering 100 prints of this first edition, so eager customers will want to make a pre-order as soon as they can come September.


By - grape Japan editorial staff.