Tamata Behind the Shrine at Kameido c. 1838 - 1840

Utagawa Hiroshige created this woodblock print, "Tamata Behind the Shrine at Kameido," using a technique called *ukiyo-e*. This wasn’t just one person’s work: the design was transferred to a woodblock by a specialist carver, who would incise the lines. A printer then applied ink to the block and pressed paper against it. Each color required a separate block, so this seemingly simple image demanded a high degree of collaboration. Consider how the lines define the forms, from the delicate snowfall to the intricate patterns on the umbrellas. The flat planes of color, characteristic of woodblock printing, lend a sense of depth and atmosphere. These figures weren't members of the elite class. They were ordinary people going about their lives, in a setting transformed by the season. The *ukiyo-e* tradition reflects a sophisticated division of labor. By focusing on the materials and the making, we can appreciate the full social context of this compelling artwork.