Ogura Imitation of the One Hundred Poems 1843 - 1846

This print, Ogura Imitation of the One Hundred Poems, was made in Japan by Utagawa Hiroshige. It is a woodblock print, a process that demands precision and collaboration. First, the design would have been drawn and transferred onto thin paper, then glued to a block of wood, usually cherry. A carver would then use specialized tools to cut away the areas that should not receive ink, leaving the design in relief. Separate blocks were required for each color, and the printer carefully applied ink to these blocks, pressing them onto paper in perfect registration. The distinct visual language hinges on the clean lines and flat planes made possible by the woodblock technique. This image is not just a picture; it is a testament to a highly developed system of labor, where the skills of the designer, carver, and printer all contribute to the final product. Understanding the making process allows us to appreciate the intricate labor involved, moving beyond traditional distinctions between art and craft.