The Meiji Constitution, also known as the Imperial Constitution, was Japan's first modern constitution. The Constitution created some limits on the power of the prime minister, as well as creating an independent judiciary. It's interpretation has been a source of great debate for historians of Japan.  The constitution was notable for creating Asia's first parliamentary government and seen as a great modernizing achievement for Japan at the time.  In created constitutional democracy in Japan.  Students should note in this picture the clothing of the participants as well as the symbolic messages conveyed by the work.  The picture depicts the actual promulgation of the Constitution, which occurred on February 11, 1889.  For more information about the Meiji Constitution, please read The Meiji Restoration Era, 1868-1889.