Suruga Bank of Ōi River at Shimada 1841 - 1842

Utagawa Hiroshige’s “Suruga Bank of Ōi River at Shimada” is a woodblock print, a medium deeply rooted in Japanese history, yet tied to the engines of commerce. Woodblock printing was not just an artistic endeavor; it was a complex system of labor. The artist would create the design, but skilled artisans were needed to carve the blocks. Printers then made the final image, each impression requiring careful hand-application of ink and pressure. The medium influences its appearance. The flat planes of color, the sharp lines, and the stylized forms all speak to the inherent qualities of woodblock printing. Look closely and you can see the traces of the knife in the delicate lines of the figures, and in the textures of the landscape. Prints like this were commercial products, made in multiples and sold to a wide audience. They are a testament to the power of art to both reflect and shape social values. By understanding the materials, the making, and the context, we can fully appreciate the artistry and ingenuity of Hiroshige and his workshop.