What affected japenese art during different stages in its history?

Japanese art has been significantly influenced by various factors throughout its history, including religion, trade, and cultural exchange. The introduction of Buddhism in the 6th century led to the creation of religious sculptures and paintings. During the Edo period, the flourishing of urban culture and the ukiyo-e woodblock prints reflected societal changes and the rise of the merchant class. Additionally, Western influences in the Meiji period prompted a fusion of traditional and modern artistic styles, shaping contemporary Japanese art.