Watanabe Seitei (1851–1918), also known as Watanabe Shōtei, was a prominent Japanese painter and ukiyo-e artist during the Meiji period. He is recognized for his contributions to the fusion of traditional Japanese painting techniques with the changing artistic landscape of his time. Seitei began his artistic career as a kachō-ga (bird and flower painting) artist and later transitioned to ukiyo-e, focusing on depictions of beautiful women, landscapes, and historical scenes.

Seitei’s artwork demonstrated a mastery of delicate brushwork and intricate detail, reflecting his training in traditional Japanese painting techniques. He embraced the modernization and westernization of Japan during the Meiji era while maintaining a connection to traditional aesthetics. He played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between traditional Japanese art and the evolving artistic trends of his time. Seitei’s contributions to the world of ukiyo-e and his ability to adapt his style to changing artistic contexts have solidified his reputation as an important figure in Japanese art history.