Richard Lane (1926 – 2002) was an American scholar and writer specializing in ukiyo-e (Japanese woodblock prints) and Japanese popular culture of the Edo period.
Lane is considered one of the foremost Western experts on ukiyo-e. He authored the seminal work, Images from the Floating World: The Japanese Print (1978), a comprehensive and widely respected survey of the art form. This book detailed the history, techniques, artists, and cultural context of ukiyo-e, and remains a standard reference for collectors, scholars, and enthusiasts.
Lane's academic background included studies in Japanese language and literature. He devoted his life to the study and interpretation of ukiyo-e, making it accessible to a wider audience. He also published numerous articles and essays on related subjects. His contributions significantly enhanced the understanding and appreciation of Japanese art and culture in the West.