Courtesan Drinking Tea 1820 - 1840

This print of a Courtesan Drinking Tea was made by Yashima Gakutei using woodblock printing techniques. The process involves carving a design into a block of wood, inking it, and then pressing paper against the block. The cherry blossom pattern is particularly interesting. Each color requires a separate block, and the precise alignment is really important to create the final image. We can think about how it was made and how this process has imbued the artwork with cultural significance. The woodblock printing has a long history in Japan, used for both religious texts and commercial prints. Here, it's fascinating to think about how such a process is tied to wider social issues and politics. The Courtesan is a product of a highly structured society. The print itself would have been relatively affordable, allowing for wide circulation. This reflects an era of increased commercial activity. Paying attention to the materials, making, and context helps us understand the full meaning of this seemingly simple artwork.