Evening Snow on Matsuchi Hilll, from the series Eight Fashionable Views of Edo (Furyu Edo hakkei) 1755 - 1780

Suzuki Harunobu created this print, "Evening Snow on Matsuchi Hill," using woodblocks and ink, around 1766, as part of his series "Eight Fashionable Views of Edo." Woodblock printing demands painstaking labor. The artist first carves the image into a block of wood, then applies ink and presses paper onto the block. Each color requires a separate block, increasing the complexity and skill needed to create the final print. Harunobu was a master of "brocade prints," or *nishiki-e*, a style known for its vibrant colors and intricate detail. The visual texture achieved through layering colors gives the print depth and richness, inviting you to explore the scene. This print, part of a series referencing the Eight Views of Xiaoxiang, elevates it to a fashionable setting. It merges the traditional with the contemporary. It reminds us to look closely at the materials and processes that shape our visual culture. By recognizing the labor and skill involved, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and its reflection of society.