Liefde die elke nacht ontmoet 1792 - 1796

This print, titled "Liefde die elke nacht ontmoet," was created by Kitagawa Utamaro in Japan, using woodblock printing. Woodblock printing involved carving an image into a block of wood, inking the surface, and then pressing paper onto the block to transfer the image. Each color required a separate block, demanding meticulous alignment and registration by the artisans involved. This print’s delicate lines and subtle gradations of color, especially noticeable in the woman’s hair and robe, speak to the high level of skill involved. The patterns and details on the kimono also contribute to the luxurious feel. Utamaro's work reflects the cultural and economic context of Edo-period Japan, a society with a thriving merchant class and a vibrant urban culture. The production of these prints involved a complex division of labor, from the artists who designed the images, to the carvers, printers, and publishers who brought them to market. Thinking about this print through the lens of materials and process reminds us of the many hands and traditions that contributed to its creation, beyond Utamaro himself.