Honderd chrysanten door Keika 1893

This is the cover of *Honderd chrysanten door Keika*, or One Hundred Chrysanthemums by Keika, printed on paper in an unknown year. Keika’s series demonstrates highly refined skills with printing techniques. Paper was essential to the circulation of visual information in Japan. Woodblock printing demanded not just the work of the artist, but also highly skilled carvers and printers. The division of labor was intricate, with specialists for each stage. The production process involved applying ink to the carved woodblocks, then carefully pressing paper onto the surface to transfer the image. The texture and absorbency of the paper determined the final look of the print. The weight and weave of the paper affects the clarity and depth of the printed lines. This division of labor also made art more accessible, creating a wider audience for Keika’s delicate, detailed illustrations. By understanding the labor and materials involved, we gain insight into the cultural and economic context of this book.