Sawamura Tanosuke as Princess Kiyo Possibly 1868

This is Sawamura Tanosuke as Princess Kiyo, a woodblock print made by Toyohara Kunichika in Japan. The production of these prints involved a division of labor. The artist designed the image, which was then carved into woodblocks by specialized artisans. Other artisans would apply ink and print the image onto paper. The final prints were often sold as inexpensive, mass-produced items, making art accessible to a broad audience. The process also influenced the artwork's appearance. Notice the bold outlines, flat planes of color, and stylized forms. These are not simply aesthetic choices, but rather reflect the limitations and possibilities inherent in the medium. The repeated registration of different blocks of color requires precision, and also results in a graphic style. Looking at this print, we gain insight into the collaborative nature of printmaking. The work embodies the skill of the designer, carver, and printer, all operating within a system of production. It is a reminder that art is not always the product of a single genius, but often the result of collective labor and shared expertise.