Avondmarkt in de Joruri straat 1852

Utagawa Hiroshige created this print, Avondmarkt in de Joruri straat, using woodblock printing, a technique known as Ukiyo-e. The process begins with a drawing, which is then transferred to a block of wood, usually cherry. The artist then carves away the areas that will not be printed, leaving a raised surface. Ink is applied to this surface, and then paper is laid on top and pressed to create the print. Each color requires a separate block, demanding precise alignment. What is so great about Ukiyo-e prints is that they are incredibly vibrant, and yet this was an artform available to the masses. Woodblock printing allowed for the mass production of images, making art accessible and affordable. It's important to remember how much labor went into them. The skilled work of carvers and printers underpinned the entire Ukiyo-e industry. Looking at this print you can't help but consider the amount of coordination and collaboration between artists, artisans and publishers.