Beginning of Civilization 24 Scenes: Clock by Toyohara Kunichika portrays the introduction of Western clocks into Japanese society during the Meiji period. The print humorously contrasts the old, traditional lifestyle with the new technology of the clock, symbolizing the rapid modernization of Japan. Kunichika’s vibrant colors and intricate details reflect the artist’s keen observation of cultural shifts, while the traditional setting emphasizes the contrast between past and present. This piece is part of a series that documents the influence of Western innovations on Japanese life during the Meiji era.