Japanese Woodblock Print Search

Ukiyo-e Search provides an incredible resource: The ability to both search for Japanese woodblock prints by simply taking a picture of an existing print AND the ability to see similar prints across multiple collections of prints. Below is an example print, click to see it in action.

About

Ukiyo-e Search was created by John Resig, a computer programmer and avid enthusiast of Japanese woodblock prints.

In his personal research he saw a need for a tool that did not exist: some way of easily finding similar prints across multiple collections simultaneously. Additionally, some way of finding prints simply by uploading a picture of a print seemed like an especially critical tool for researchers and collectors alike.

A ton of work has gone into making this search engine as easy to use as possible, for example: Artist names have been unified into a single name across collections (even taking into account artist name changes) - even translating the Kanji names on Japanese museum sites. Also the best possible images have been found on the museum sites (which can often be a task unto itself).

This site is currently serving as a demonstration of what's possible but many improvements are still yet to be made.

If you have any questions please contact him at: jeresig@gmail.com.