The Mountains of Husband and Wife (Onyo imoseyama 阥阦妹背山) 1810

This page, titled *The Mountains of Husband and Wife,* was made by Katsushika Hokusai, using the technique of woodblock printing. The linear quality of the print shows that the images started as drawings, then transferred to a block. Parts of the block were then carefully carved away, leaving a raised surface to receive ink. It is likely that Hokusai worked with specialist artisans who were experts in carving, and printing. It was their skill that allowed him to achieve the exquisite detailing seen here. The nature of woodblock printing has social significance. It made mass production possible, and created a much wider audience for Hokusai's work. Inexpensive prints democratized art in Japan and provided an opportunity for a wider range of people to engage with it. Considered in this light, Hokusai's work allows us to challenge traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, and between elite and popular culture.