Platvissen, abalone en bessen 1835 - 1840

Utagawa Hiroshige made this print of flatfish, abalone, and berries using woodblock printing, a technique that demands a unique blend of artistry and craft. This print's visual impact hinges on the interplay between the natural qualities of wood, the artist's skill, and the collaborative labor of the artisans involved. Each color requires a separate block, meticulously carved by hand, demanding a deep understanding of the material and a highly refined technique. The texture of the paper, the grain of the wood, and the careful registration of each color layer contribute to the print’s overall effect. The tradition of woodblock printing has deep roots in both fine art and commercial production. It was a way for artists to disseminate their work widely and relatively cheaply. The success of this print depended not only on Hiroshige's artistic vision, but also on the coordinated efforts of block cutters and printers, highlighting the crucial role of craft in artistic creation. Appreciating the material and the making of this artwork helps to understand its full meaning, challenging our usual distinctions between art and craft.