Courtesan Parading Beneath Cherry Tree c. 1769 - 1770

This print of a courtesan was made by Suzuki Harunobu in 18th century Japan, likely using the woodblock printing technique. The image is not simply drawn, but carved in reverse into a block of wood. Multiple blocks are needed, one for each color. It's a labour-intensive process, involving careful registration to build up the image. Look closely, and you can see the subtle layering of colors, creating depth and texture. The cherry blossoms in her kimono hint at the season and emphasize the beauty of nature. Woodblock printing was a key technology in the development of mass media and popular culture. It made art more accessible, allowing artists like Harunobu to reach a wider audience. The image of the courtesan herself speaks to the complex social dynamics of the time, where beauty and status were commodities. The choice of material and the printing process are inseparable from the work's meaning, blurring the lines between art, craft, and commerce.