Vijf uitknipplaatjes 1858

This print, "Five Cutout Pictures," was made by Utagawa Hiroshige in Japan, using woodblock printing. This process involves carving a design into a block of wood, inking the surface, and then pressing paper against it to transfer the image. Consider the labor involved. Each color requires a separate block, demanding precise carving to align perfectly. You can see the layered effect in the subtle gradations of color, like in the fan depicting boats at sea, or in the plumage of the birds. The texture of the paper itself contributes to the overall effect, with its slight absorbency softening the lines of the print. The different shapes give a variety of scenes, from nature to people. Woodblock printing wasn't just a technique; it was a system. It relied on the skills of designers, carvers, printers, and publishers, all working collaboratively within a commercial framework. By understanding the materiality and making of this print, we gain insight into the broader social context of its creation and consumption. This challenges us to appreciate the ingenuity and skill embedded within what might be considered a "simple" print.