Longevity: Wo Quan (Ju, Akusen), from an untitled series of happiness, prosperity, and longevity c. 1824

This print, “Longevity: Wo Quan (Ju, Akusen),” was created by Yashima Gakutei in Japan, using woodblock printing techniques. The process involves carving an image into a block of wood, applying ink to the raised surface, and then pressing paper against it to transfer the image. Look closely, and you can see how the texture of the wood grain subtly influences the appearance of the print, adding depth and character to the image. The lines are crisp, and the colors are vibrant, a testament to the artist’s skill. Woodblock printing was a meticulous, labor-intensive process that required the collaboration of artists, carvers, and printers, each contributing their expertise to create the final image. Japanese prints were not only aesthetic objects, they were also products of a sophisticated economic system. The prints were made for popular consumption, and their production supported a whole network of artisans and merchants. Considering the processes of making and its social context allows us to appreciate its full meaning, moving beyond traditional distinctions between art and craft.