A Nobleman Dancing c. 1823

This print, "A Nobleman Dancing," was made by Totoya Hokkei in 19th-century Japan, using a technique called woodblock printing. The materiality of this piece is fascinating; it's not just about the image, but also about the process that made it. Woodblock printing, or *ukiyo-e*, involves carving an image into a block of wood, inking it, and then pressing paper onto the block. Each color requires a separate block, demanding precision and skill, layer by layer. The resulting image has a distinctive flatness and crispness of line. Look closely at the patterns in the noblemen’s robes, the umbrella, and at the different textures in the background. The woodblock technique encourages simplified forms and bold outlines, emphasizing the overall design. Historically, *ukiyo-e* prints were relatively affordable and accessible, produced in multiples for a wide audience. Hokkei's work, like much *ukiyo-e*, challenges the traditional hierarchy between art and craft. It's a reminder that the most compelling images are often born from the intersection of technical skill, artistic vision, and social context.