Nihon hana zue 1896

Ogata Gekko created this woodblock print, Nihon hana zue. The work is a testament to the skill of Japanese printmaking, a meticulous craft demanding precision and collaboration. The process begins with the artist's design, which is then transferred to a woodblock. Skilled artisans carve away the wood, leaving behind a raised surface that will hold the ink. Each color requires a separate block, demanding careful alignment and registration. The paper, often handmade from mulberry fibers, is pressed against the inked block to transfer the image. Looking closely, you can appreciate the layered effect of the print, the subtle gradations of color, and the fine lines that bring the image to life. This print is not just an image; it's an index of the many hours of labor, of the careful choices of materials, and the collective expertise of artists and artisans. By recognizing the artistry embedded in the making, we move beyond conventional notions of art, understanding it as a process deeply rooted in cultural practices and modes of production.