Two women having sex with one of them wearing a harikata (artificial phallus) 

This print was created in Japan by Katsushika Hokusai, using woodblock printing techniques. These methods rely on carving a design into a block of wood, inking it, and then pressing paper on top to transfer the image. It's a means of production that allows for multiple copies, bringing art to a wider audience. Look at the details achieved through this process – the intricate patterns on the women’s robes, the lines of the characters that narrate the image, and the subtle coloring. Woodblock printing requires incredible skill and patience. Each color needs a separate block, and aligning these perfectly takes real expertise. The choice of this technique is significant. It places this image within a tradition of popular art, rather than the elite world of painting. This speaks to the role of art in society, and the ability of these prints to offer an intimate glimpse into a world of pleasure and desire. Appreciating the labor and artistry involved in its creation gives us a deeper connection to this work.