Willow quarter of the theatrical world, flowers in pairs at the height of prosperity 1864

This print, "Willow quarter of the theatrical world, flowers in pairs at the height of prosperity," was made by Utagawa Kunisada in 19th-century Japan, using woodblock printing. The process begins with a drawing, which is then transferred to a block of wood, usually cherry. Using knives and chisels, the block is carved, leaving the lines of the design in relief. Ink is applied to the surface, and then paper is laid on top and rubbed to transfer the image. Each color requires a separate block, demanding precise registration, considerable skill, and a division of labor. Here, the flat expanses of color and crisp outlines create a stylized depiction of actors, set against a floral background. Woodblock prints like this were not considered "high art" at the time, but rather a popular, commercial product, catering to a broad audience. The value lies not just in the image, but in the labor-intensive and collaborative mode of production. This brings the worlds of craft, commerce, and theater into dialogue.