The Cicada Stream 1838

These prints, made in Japan in the late 17th century by Hasegawa Myōtei, are woodblock prints on paper, showcasing the artistry possible with relatively modest materials. Look closely, and you'll see how the linear quality of the designs emerges directly from the cutting of the woodblocks. The texture of the paper also plays a role, subtly softening the ink. The prints feature scenes of women engaged in various activities, surrounded by text. Consider the labor involved: from the cultivation of the paper, to the carving of the blocks, to the printing itself. The process involved collaboration between the artist, who created the original design, and the skilled block carvers and printers who brought it to life. This division of labor speaks to a burgeoning commercial culture in Japan at the time. The very existence of these prints, made with such care and skill, challenges any rigid distinction between art and craft. They are a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the beauty that can be found in the everyday.