Hondje spelend met bloemenwagen 1897

Ogata Gekko created this woodblock print, Hondje spelend met bloemenwagen, during the Meiji period in Japan. With its stylized lines and flat planes of color, the printmaking process emphasizes the image's graphic qualities. To make this image, a series of woodblocks would have been carved, inked, and then pressed onto paper, each adding a new layer of color and detail. Notice how the materiality of the woodblock influences the work. The sharp lines and clear separation of colors, particularly in the woman's robe and the floral arrangement, are a direct result of the carving and printing process. The labor-intensive nature of woodblock printing, requiring skilled artisans, adds to the cultural significance, reflecting Japan's rich tradition of craftsmanship. It's important to recognize how materials, making, and context enhance our understanding, and how distinctions between fine art and craft can obscure a deeper appreciation.