Farewell c. 19th century

This is an image by Utagawa Hiroshige, made with woodblock printing, a demanding process of carving, inking, and pressing. What is most striking is the sharp contrast between the subtle grey shades of the background, and the vibrant kimono worn by the central figure. These intense colors would have been achieved with multiple passes of the printing block, each one laying down a different layer of pigment. The result is an image that is both flat and richly layered, a testament to the skill of the printmaker. We should also consider the social context of these prints. They were a relatively affordable art form, and available to a wide audience. In this sense, Hiroshige’s work challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, high and low culture. The image resonates with a sense of popular appeal and accessibility, offering a glimpse into the everyday lives and aesthetics of 19th-century Japan.