Japanese graphic design from the 1920s-30s

Poster design by Shujiro Shimomura, 1928

Cover of “Nippon” magazine issue #2, Jan 1935

In the 1920s and 1930s, Japan embraced new forms of graphic design as waves of social change swept across the nation.

“The Advertising World” magazine cover, June 1926

“Reijin” sheet music cover, 1930

“Buy Domestic!” poster, 1930

This collection of 50 posters, magazine covers and advertisements offer a glimpse at some of the prevailing tendencies in a society transformed by the growth of modern industry and technology, the popularity of Western art and culture, and the emergence of leftist political thought.

Cover of “Nippon” magazine issue #1, Oct 1934

“The Advertising World” magazine cover, Sep 1933

Magazine ad for “Seishun Zukai” movie, 1931

Nikke sports coat poster ad by Gihachiro Okayama, 1931