Courtesan and New Year Decoration 1806 - 1826

Katsukawa Shuntei created this woodblock print, "Courtesan and New Year Decoration," around the turn of the 19th century. Woodblock prints like this one were made using a division of labor. The artist created the design, which was then transferred to a block of wood, typically cherry. Specialist carvers would use knives and chisels to cut away the areas that would not be printed, leaving a raised surface. Separate blocks were required for each color in the final image. Printers would then ink the blocks and apply paper to create the impression. The resulting prints were relatively inexpensive, enabling artists like Shuntei to cater to a broad audience, and reflecting Japan's burgeoning urban culture. While the materials might seem humble, the artistry of the designer, carver, and printer elevated the final product. This print offers a glimpse into the social and cultural life of Edo-period Japan, reminding us that even seemingly simple materials can carry complex cultural meaning.