Clear Autumn Weather on the Rainbow Embankment c. 1832

"Clear Autumn Weather on the Rainbow Embankment" was made by Katsushika Hokusai using the traditional Japanese woodblock printing technique. The process begins with a drawing, which is then meticulously carved into a woodblock. Different blocks are used for each color, and the paper is carefully registered and pressed onto the blocks to build up the final image. The success of this technique relies on the skilled labor of artisans, including the artist, carvers, and printers, each a master of their craft, whose work is often overlooked. Here, the delicate lines and subtle gradations of color create a sense of depth and atmosphere. The image speaks to the harmonious balance between nature and human activity, the woodblock medium itself relies on a complex division of labor. Appreciating the immense amount of skilled work involved in the production process allows us to reconsider this print, not only as a beautiful image, but as a testament to the collective efforts of a highly specialized workforce.