Kakinomoto no Hitomaro (ca. 662–710), One of the Three Gods of Poetry From the Spring Rain Collection (Harusame shū), vol. 1 1820s

This print of Kakinomoto no Hitomaro, one of the three Gods of Poetry, was made by Yashima Gakutei in 19th-century Japan. It is from a collection titled *Spring Rain*. The print is made using *ukiyo-e*, a woodblock printing technique. This method involves carving a design into a block of wood, applying ink, and then pressing the block onto paper. The *ukiyo-e* process allowed for the mass production of images, making art more accessible. Look closely at the fine lines and subtle gradations of color. These details required great skill on the part of the artist and the printer. The texture of the paper also adds to the print's delicate quality. Interestingly, *ukiyo-e* prints were not always considered high art. They were often seen as popular, commercial images. However, today, we recognize the artistry and skill involved in their creation, bridging the gap between craft and fine art.