Okame and Pine c. 1830s

This print, Okame and Pine, was made by Murata Kashō, and shows us how visual language can be built from simple materials. The woodblock printmaking process involves carving a design into a block of wood, inking it, and then pressing paper against it to transfer the image. Here, the artist has used these techniques to render an image of Okame, a figure in Japanese folklore known for her cheerful nature, carrying a bundle of pine branches. The lines are crisp and clear, which reflects the precise work of the carver. Notice how the wood's grain isn't apparent; this indicates the use of a fine-grained wood, chosen for its ability to hold detail. The colors, too, are carefully applied, with flat, even tones that speak to the skill of the printer. It is through the precise application of craft that Okame’s narrative is brought to life. This print challenges the idea that "fine art" is somehow separate from the skill and labor involved in craft. It encourages us to value both the image and the processes.