Geisha reading a book 

This print, showing a geisha absorbed in a book, was created by Katsushika Hokusai, a master of the Japanese ukiyo-e style. Woodblock printing is a demanding process. First, the image is drawn, then transferred to a block of wood, usually cherry. Using chisels and knives, the cutter carves away the negative space. Separate blocks are required for each color, which are then carefully applied in layers. Looking closely, you can see how the grain of the wood subtly textures the entire image. The flat planes of color and crisp outlines are characteristic of the medium. This wasn't just an artistic technique; it was a commercial one. Ukiyo-e prints were relatively inexpensive, allowing for widespread circulation. Understanding the labor and craft involved in woodblock printing gives us a deeper appreciation for Hokusai's artistry, and reminds us that even seemingly simple images are the product of skilled work. They were made for a mass audience, and blur the lines between art and craft.