Kōshi no tsuki 1880

Tsukioka Yoshitoshi created this woodblock print, ‘Kōshi no tsuki’, using a process deeply embedded in Japanese craft traditions. Woodblock printing, or *ukiyo-e*, involves carving an image into a block of wood, applying ink, and then pressing the block onto paper. The material qualities of wood define the aesthetic. The grain influences the carving, the ink interacts with the paper creating subtle variations, and the pressure applied during printing affects the final image. Each color requires a separate block, demanding precision and skill. Yoshitoshi was part of a lineage of artisans who developed this complex process. *Ukiyo-e* prints were originally made for popular consumption, reflecting urban life and entertainment. However, artists like Yoshitoshi elevated the medium to new heights, tackling historical and mythical subjects with sensitivity and artistry. The labor-intensive process, divided amongst the artist, carver, and printer, highlights the collaborative nature of craft production. By focusing on the materials, making, and context, we can understand the historical significance and artistic merit, challenging any distinction between craft and fine art.