Two Girls and Small Boy with Fishbowl c. 1765 - 1770

Editor: This is a woodblock print by Suzuki Harunobu, called "Two Girls and Small Boy with Fishbowl." The women's clothing seems so intricately patterned; what can you tell me about the process that created this? Curator: It's fascinating to consider the labor involved in creating these prints. The intricate patterns on the kimonos, for example, required multiple blocks, each meticulously carved and printed. This challenges a simplistic view of "fine art," placing value on the skilled craftsmanship and the social context of its production and consumption. Editor: That's such a good point, I didn't even think about the labor involved! Thanks for your perspective. Curator: Of course! Thinking about the materiality really changes how we view these images.