Act I of the Drama "Sugawara" 1769 - 1825

This print was made by Utagawa Toyokuni I, probably in the early 1800s, using woodblocks and colored inks. Looking closely, you can see how the material influences the image. Notice the texture and weight of the ink that defines the patterned robes of the figures. You can almost feel the heavy drape of the fabric. The process of woodblock printing is key. Each color requires a separate block, carved with incredible precision. Skilled artisans, following the artist’s design, would layer these blocks to build up the final image. This division of labor raises an interesting point. While Toyokuni’s name is attached to the print, the work involved many hands. Understanding this print involves recognizing the labor and the social context of its creation. It challenges our usual emphasis on the individual artist, revealing a collaborative process deeply embedded in the culture of its time. This is far more than just an image; it is a testament to the shared effort and traditions that brought it into being.