29. Moto Hachiman Shrine in Sunamura 1857

This is Moto Hachiman Shrine in Sunamura, a woodblock print by Utagawa Hiroshige. This print is one of many from “One Hundred Famous Views of Edo”. Woodblock printing, or woodcut, is a relief printing technique. The artist would first create a drawing, which was then transferred to a block of wood, usually cherry. Using chisels and knives, the non-printing areas were carved away, leaving the design raised. Ink was applied to the raised surface, and then paper was pressed onto the block to create the print. Each color required a separate block, meaning that complex prints like this one could involve a whole team of artisans. When you look at this print, think about the labor involved, from the artist’s initial design to the skilled work of the carvers and printers. Each impression represents a collaboration between many hands, making “One Hundred Famous Views of Edo” a testament to both individual artistry and collective effort.