Twenty-four Japanese examples of filial piety for the Honchôren c. 1821

This print, Twenty-four Japanese Examples of Filial Piety, was made by Yashima Gakutei in 19th century Japan using woodblock printing, a demanding process with a long history. Consider the labor involved: each color needs a separate block, carved with precision, and aligned perfectly for printing. This wasn’t just a technical exercise; it was a cultural act. The image depicts a son tending to his elderly parent, a visual sermon on the importance of familial duty. The print's soft colors and delicate lines, achieved through skilled carving and printing, stand in contrast to the hard work of the son. The artist is using the print medium – inherently reproducible – to disseminate this message widely. It's a potent reminder that even in the most intimate family relationships, labor and social expectations are always at play.