Poem by Chūnagon Yakamochi c. 1835 - 1836

Katsushika Hokusai created this woodblock print titled, Poem by Chūnagon Yakamochi. This work is a testament to the skill of Japanese Ukiyo-e printmaking, which involves carving a series of woodblocks, one for each color, and then carefully printing them in succession onto paper. This labor-intensive process demanded precision, with each block requiring separate carving and printing. Look closely, and you can see the subtle variations in color and line, a direct result of the wood's inherent qualities and the artist's skillful manipulation. Hokusai masterfully evokes texture and depth through the layering of color and intricate carving. The resulting image vibrates with energy, from the tranquil sea to the bustling maritime activity. The mode of production highlights the commercial aspect of art in the Edo period. By appreciating the material and the making, we recognize that the print represents a meeting point between artistic vision, technical skill, and the dynamics of cultural production.