Girl in Chinese Dress 

Fujishima Takeji painted "Girl in Chinese Dress" in 1928. The artwork reflects the Taisho democracy and the liberal atmosphere of the period. Takeji's choice of subject and style creates meaning through visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations. The image presents a modern Japanese woman wearing a traditional Chinese dress. This reflects the growing interest in internationalism and cross-cultural exchange during this time. It also reflects the history of colonialism and imperialism between Japan and China. The painting reflects Japan's complex relationship with the rest of the world. Was it self-consciously progressive? Did it critique the institutions of art? Historians study artworks by researching the resources available to the artist. By reflecting on the social and institutional context in which the art was created, we gain a deeper understanding.