Maisaka--Real View of Imagiri c. 1832 - 1833

This print, *Maisaka--Real View of Imagiri*, was made by Utagawa Hiroshige using woodblock printing, a method known as *ukiyo-e*. The character of the wood is crucial here. A keyblock was carved first, defining the image, and then other blocks were made for each color. Because the wood can only yield so many clear impressions before wearing down, these prints were truly democratic objects, produced in large numbers for a broad public. Notice the flat planes of color, and how the grain of the wood subtly appears. The success of this print depended on the close collaboration between the artist, the block carver, and the printer, each a specialist in their own right. Far from a unique creation, *ukiyo-e* prints like this one were made to be widely enjoyed, connecting the populace to iconic landscapes, and to each other. The rich hues and delicate lines are a testament to the deep traditions of craftsmanship and the culture of printmaking in Japan.