The Actor Ichikawa Komazo I in his rice cracker shop c. 1771

This print of ‘The Actor Ichikawa Komazo I in his rice cracker shop’ was made by Torii Kiyomitsu using woodblock printing, a traditional Japanese technique known as ukiyo-e. Woodblock printing involves carving a design into a block of wood, inking the surface, and then pressing paper onto the block to transfer the image. The process can be repeated to create multiple prints, as well as applying different blocks for each color. The flat expanses of color and clear outlines emphasize the graphic quality of the image, making it ideal for mass production and distribution. This technique allowed artists to create affordable artworks for a wide audience, depicting scenes from everyday life, popular culture, and, of course, actors. The actor's image is skillfully carved, revealing the artistry and labor involved in the woodblock printing process. The finished product captures a moment in time but also reflects the wider social context of Edo-period Japan, and its flourishing urban culture. Appreciating the work that goes into the making of the piece, and its cultural context, deepens our understanding of its meaning and value.