Cranes 1615 - 1868

Hishikawa Moronobu created this print of cranes on paper in the late 17th century. This work exemplifies ‘ukiyo-e’, a type of Japanese printmaking that flourished during the Edo period. These prints were typically made through woodblock printing, a labor-intensive process requiring skilled artisans to carve the image into woodblocks, apply ink, and then press the block onto paper. Moronobu's designs, rendered in ink on paper, highlight the stark contrast and delicate lines achievable through woodblock techniques. The evenness of the blacks shows an intimate understanding of inking, pressure, and suitable papers. The production of ukiyo-e prints was closely tied to the rise of a merchant class and increasing urbanization. They were relatively affordable, meeting the demand for art among a broader public, quite unlike traditional painting. The images captured scenes of daily life, landscapes, and popular culture, reflecting and shaping the tastes of their time. Consider the collaborative nature of printmaking, and the ways in which the economics of production influenced both the subjects depicted and the stylistic qualities of the prints themselves. This offers insights into the intersection of art, commerce, and society in Edo-period Japan.