28. Palace Hill in Shinagawa 1857

Utagawa Hiroshige made this woodblock print, Palace Hill in Shinagawa, with cherry trees and people using a sophisticated printing process. Woodblock printing begins with a drawing, meticulously transferred to thin paper. This is then glued to a block of wood, usually cherry. Next, the image is carved in relief. Separate blocks are required for each color. The printer applies ink to the block, then presses paper to its surface. This labor-intensive process demands great skill, requiring teams of artists, carvers, and printers. Consider the impact of the materials on the artwork. The wood's grain subtly appears, while the ink's texture enriches the image. Each impression is a testament to the collaboration between artist and artisan. Prints like this catered to a growing urban audience. Understanding the materials and processes used sheds light on the rich interplay between art, craft, and society.