Pearl Divers 1802

This is *Pearl Divers*, a woodblock print by Kitagawa Utamaro, made in Japan in the late 18th century. Woodblock printing, or *ukiyo-e*, was a demanding process that involved several artisans. First, a skilled artist created a design, which was then transferred to a woodblock and carved by a block cutter. Finally, a printer applied ink to the block and pressed it onto paper. Each color required a separate block, demanding collaboration and precision. The material qualities of the print - the delicate lines, the subtle gradations of color, the texture of the paper - all speak to the skill of the artisans involved. What makes *ukiyo-e* prints so compelling is their intimate connection to everyday life and labour. They offer us a glimpse into the material conditions of 18th century Japan, and the many hands that contributed to its making. This print invites us to consider the social and economic context in which it was produced, and the value of craft traditions.