Near the Go Board

This print, *Near the Go Board*, was made by Isoda Koryūsai in the late 18th century using woodblock printing, a technique known as *ukiyo-e*. The process begins with a drawing, which is then carefully transferred onto a wooden block, usually cherry. Using specialized carving tools, the key outlines are meticulously cut, leaving raised areas that will hold the ink. Each color requires a separate block, demanding precise alignment. The blocks are then inked, and paper is laid on top. Pressure is applied with a hand-held barren, transferring the image. Koryūsai was a master of this technique, evident in the flat planes and bold outlines. The materiality of the print influences its appearance, lending a graphic quality to the scene. The labor involved in the production process, from carving to printing, highlights the skilled craftsmanship inherent in *ukiyo-e*. This print invites us to consider the intersection of technique, labor, and artistic expression, challenging traditional notions of high art.