Yamashita Kinsaku II as the maid Ebizō Okane, actually Iwate Gozen, wife of Abe Sadatō 1794

This print by Tōshūsai Sharaku depicts the actor Yamashita Kinsaku II, and it's made using woodblock printing, a quintessential technique in Japanese art. The process starts with a drawing, which is then carefully transferred to a wooden block, usually cherry. The artist or a skilled artisan then carves away the wood around the lines, leaving a raised image. Ink is applied to the block, and then paper is laid on top and rubbed to transfer the image. Each color requires a separate block, demanding precision and planning. The materiality of the wood – its grain and texture – subtly influence the final print. Woodblock printing was closely tied to the rise of urban culture and a merchant class in Japan. It allowed for the mass production of images, making art more accessible to a wider audience. The subject matter, often actors and courtesans, reflected the interests and tastes of this new urban class. Understanding the materials and processes behind this print gives us insight not only into its aesthetic qualities but also into its social and cultural context, blurring the lines between art, craft, and popular culture.