Sneeuwbal 1794 - 1798

This print, "Snowball", was made by Utagawa Toyokuni II in 19th-century Japan using woodblock printing, a quintessential example of the *ukiyo-e* tradition. The materiality of the print significantly influences its aesthetic. The texture of the paper, the delicate color palette, and the linear quality are all intrinsic to the medium. Each color requires a separate block, demanding meticulous carving and registration. Look closely and you'll see the slight misalignments, and variations in ink density. The process involves a collaboration between the artist, the carver, and the printer, each bringing unique skills to the final product. These prints were not considered 'high art' at the time. *Ukiyo-e* prints were products of a thriving commercial culture, made for a broad urban audience. They were relatively inexpensive and mass-produced, a far cry from the unique, handcrafted objects of the aristocratic class. The labor-intensive process of woodblock printing highlights the democratization of art in Japan at the time, and the commercial forces at play. By understanding the materials, processes, and social context of this print, we appreciate it beyond its decorative appeal. We understand the significance of *ukiyo-e* within a wider social and cultural landscape, which challenges conventional distinctions between art and craft.