The Kabuki Actor Ichikawa Danjûrô VI 1825

This print of the Kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjûrô VI was made by Utagawa Toyokuni I, using woodblock printing, a demanding process requiring specialized labor and materials. The process begins with a drawing, carefully transferred to a woodblock – usually cherry. Using chisels and knives, the key lines of the design are carved, defining the image's structure. Separate blocks are then prepared for each color, with the printer carefully aligning them to create the final image. The materiality of woodblock printing deeply influences the artwork's appearance. The flat, graphic quality, bold lines, and clear color separations are all direct results of the medium. The texture of the wood itself can sometimes be detected, adding a tactile dimension to the image. This print reflects a culture of artisanal labor, where the skills of the designer, carver, and printer are all valued. By understanding the materials, making, and context of this print, we can appreciate the rich history of collaboration and craft inherent in its creation.