Stone Bridge over the Aji River, Osaka 1838

This print of the Stone Bridge over the Aji River in Osaka was made by Yashima Gakutei sometime in the first half of the 19th century. It’s a woodblock print, meaning that the image was carved in reverse on a block of wood, inked, and then pressed onto paper. What's fascinating is how the woodblock medium itself shapes our perception. Look closely at the subtle gradations of color, achieved by carefully controlling the amount of ink on the block. Notice the flat planes of color and the bold outlines, a direct result of the carving process. The image is carefully keyed to the block, which is evident in the lines showing water. This was a laborious process, demanding highly skilled artisans who were often unacknowledged in the final product. Prints like this were relatively inexpensive, consumed by a broad public. So, while the image depicts a specific place, it also reflects the growing commercialism of the era. By considering the materials, the making, and the context, we gain a richer understanding of this seemingly simple image.