The Russo-Japanese War (1904–1905) marked a pivotal moment in naval warfare, and this circa 1900 original print vividly captures the intensity of battle. Titled "Our Torpedoes Attack Russian Fleet at Port Arthur," this striking composition depicts a Japanese nighttime torpedo assault on the Russian fleet stationed at Port Arthur (modern-day Lüshunkou, China)—one of the most significant conflicts of the war.
This print reflects the Japanese naval strategy, which relied on surprise attacks and technological advancements to cripple the Russian fleet. The scene is filled with drama and movement, as Japanese torpedo boats, under the cover of darkness, launch an offensive against the larger, heavily armed Russian warships. The beams of searchlights cutting through the night sky add to the tension, illuminating the clash between the two forces.
At the outbreak of war in February 1904, Japan launched a preemptive strike on Port Arthur, severely damaging Russian warships and setting the tone for future engagements. This battle signaled the emergence of Japan as a dominant naval power, ultimately leading to its victory over the Russian Empire—a momentous event that shifted global perceptions of military strength in the early 20th century.
This historical print serves as both wartime propaganda and documentary illustration, commemorating Japan’s strategic prowess and the turning point in modern naval combat. Today, it remains a compelling artifact of military history, offering insight into the visual culture of the Russo-Japanese War.
War - Japan - Russia
Naval war
Good condition
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