Ships Entering Tenpozan Harbor (Tenpozan mansen nyushin no zu), from the series "Famous Places in Osaka: Fine Views of Mount Tenpo (Naniwa meisho Tenpozan shokei ichiran)" c. 1834

Yashima Gakutei created *Ships Entering Tenpozan Harbor* using woodblock printing, a process known as *ukiyo-e*. This wasn’t just a way to make art, but a mode of mass production. Separate blocks were carved for each color, then carefully registered to create the final image. Look closely, and you can see how the translucent ink interacts with the paper, creating a layered effect. The blue of the sky and sea, the green of the trees, and the pink of the sun create a vibrant, atmospheric scene. The many boats suggest a bustling port, reflecting Osaka’s importance as a center of commerce and trade. Woodblock printing was a collaborative effort, involving the artist, block carver, and printer. This division of labor allowed for the efficient production of prints, making art accessible to a wider audience. By focusing on materials, processes, and social context, we recognize the importance of craft in understanding the full meaning of this artwork, blurring the boundaries between fine art and everyday life.