De Genzan soldaten in opmars naar Pyongyang en de hevige strijd tussen Japanse en Chinese troepen 1894

This woodblock print by Nakamura Shûkô depicts the Genzaan soldiers advancing towards Pyongyang amidst fierce combat between Japanese and Chinese forces. The rising sun flag, Hinomaru, flutters defiantly, symbolizing Japan's imperial ambitions. Consider how flags have served as potent symbols throughout history, from ancient Roman standards to revolutionary banners. Each emblem is a rallying point, embodying the collective will and aspirations of a group. In this print, the Hinomaru is reminiscent of Mars, the god of war, whose symbols were carried into battle to instill courage and solidarity. This emblem, charged with cultural and psychological weight, serves as a powerful visual shorthand for complex narratives of conquest. The symbolism evolves, adapting to new political landscapes, yet its core function remains: to evoke loyalty, identity, and often, the darker impulses of domination. The cyclical progression of these symbols, their resurfacing and evolution across time, remind us of the enduring power of images to shape our perceptions.