Nummer tien van de Tokaido. 1849 - 1850

Utagawa Hiroshige made this print using woodblock printing techniques. The work reflects the culture and economics of 19th century Japan. The materiality of the print, from the paper’s texture to the ink’s hues, speaks volumes. Carving the design into woodblocks required a high degree of skill and intense labor. The lines are precise, and the colors are applied in thin layers to create depth and atmosphere. Note the different scenes, each carefully rendered with a distinct character. These scenes provide a glimpse into everyday life in Japan, with its bustling ports and serene landscapes. Woodblock prints like this were often produced in large quantities and were relatively affordable, making them accessible to a wide audience. This democratization of art allowed for the dissemination of cultural values. The print’s aesthetic quality reflects the fusion of craft and artistic vision. It challenges the notion that art must be precious to be meaningful. It invites us to consider the social context in which art is produced.