Sumo Wrestlers 

Katsushika Hokusai made this print of Sumo Wrestlers in the late 18th to mid-19th century. It's made of ink and color on paper, using a printing technique called woodblock printing, or *ukiyo-e*. The process begins with a drawing, which is then carefully transferred to a block of wood, usually cherry. A carver then uses specialized tools to cut away the areas that will not be inked, leaving a raised surface. Separate blocks are required for each color, adding to the complexity of the technique. The finished blocks are then inked and printed onto paper, often with the assistance of a *baren*, a disc-like tool that is rubbed on the back of the paper to ensure even contact with the block. In this print, the thick, expressive lines and subtle color variations demonstrate Hokusai’s skill. *Ukiyo-e* prints like this one were relatively affordable and accessible, contributing to a vibrant popular culture in Japan. So we can think of this print as a product of collaboration, combining the talents of the artist, carver, and printer, all contributing to a rich visual language that blurs the boundaries between art and craft.