Print 1786 - 1854

This print was made by Utagawa Kunisada in Japan, using woodblocks and ink. Woodblock printing is an indirect process - each color requires a separate block, carefully carved by a skilled artisan. The artist would have needed strong coordination with carvers and printers, who would work to produce multiple copies of the final image. The patterns within this artwork are rich and intricate, each color block carved with such care, layering the image to give it depth. It represents a significant amount of labor and skill involved in creating these prints. The result is a beautiful image, but we should also remember the human effort embedded in the grain of the wood. The cultural significance of Japanese woodblock prints is undeniable. They were often produced in large quantities, making art more accessible to a wider audience. By focusing on materials, making, and social context, we can appreciate the full meaning of Kunisada's work, acknowledging the traditions of craftsmanship and fine art.