Six Poetic Sages as Young Women at the Plum Garden at Kameido 1800 - 1865

Utagawa Kunisada’s woodblock print depicts two women at the plum garden at Kameido. The production of these prints involved a division of labor between artist, carver, printer, and publisher. Woodblock prints are made by carving an image into wood, applying ink, and pressing paper onto the block to transfer the image. Each color requires a separate block and careful alignment to create the final design. The layered colors in this print give depth to the kimonos, plum blossoms, and the women’s features. The texture of the paper also contributes to the print’s aesthetic, adding a tactile quality to the image. The creation of woodblock prints was a collaborative process that relied on the skills of artisans, the artist's design, and the publisher's vision. It reflects the industrial and commercial systems of Kunisada’s time. By understanding the labor and materials that went into its production, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and cultural context of this work. It's not just an image; it is a product of collective skill and effort.