Schetsen voor kunstenaars - deel drie Possibly 1883 - 1885

This is "Sketches for Artists, Part Three", made by Kōno Bairei in Japan sometime in the late 19th century. It’s comprised of paper and thread used to create a small book. Look closely, and you’ll see how the texture of the paper influences the book's appearance, lending it a tactile quality that invites handling and exploration. Likely produced through manual labor, this book reflects the skilled traditions of Japanese craftsmanship. From the preparation of the paper to the stitching of the binding, each step required expertise and precision. Consider the broader social context in which this book was made; bookmaking was then undergoing significant changes with industrialization. This work is imbued with social and cultural significance, offering insights into the values and priorities of its time. The importance of materials, making, and context should be recognized to fully understand the meaning of the artwork, challenging the traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.