Myohon Temple, Kamakura 1931

This print of Myohon Temple in Kamakura was made by Hasui Kawase using traditional Japanese woodblock printing. The process, called *mokuhanga*, involves carving a separate block for each color, inking it, and then pressing it onto paper. What makes this print so compelling is the way the woodblock technique captures the scene's atmosphere. Look at the layers of color in the cherry blossoms, the subtle variations in the sky, and the depth created by the overlapping forms. The wood grain itself adds texture, enhancing the tactile quality of the image. This wasn't just one person's effort. *Mokuhanga* typically involves the collaboration of an artist, a carver, a printer, and a publisher. Each artisan brought their expertise to the process, contributing to the final result. In this way, *Mokuhanga* allowed for artistic expression to exist alongside craft and design, challenging the distinction between them.