Yoshitsune Serenading Jorurihime 1775 - 1795

This print, Yoshitsune Serenading Jorurihime, was made by Torii Kiyonaga in the late 18th century, using woodblock printing. The process begins with a drawing, which is then carefully transferred to a block of wood. The artist then carves away the negative space, leaving the lines of the image raised. Ink is applied to the surface of the block, and then paper is laid on top and rubbed to transfer the image. For a color print like this one, a separate block is required for each color. Look at how Kiyonaga has used this process to capture a sense of elegance. The thinness of the lines, the layering of color, the flatness of the composition – all of these are made possible by the woodblock technique. It’s also worth remembering that the publisher played a large role in the economic and social context of the art, commissioning the artist and selling the prints to a ready market. When you look at an artwork, consider its materials and making. You’ll find that these inform its appearance, and imbue it with cultural significance.