Hotei Flowers 19th century

This print, *Hotei Flowers*, was made by Kubo Shunman in Japan using woodblock printing. This technique, known as *ukiyo-e*, involves carving an image into wood, inking the surface, and pressing it onto paper. Look closely, and you will see that the material qualities of the paper support the aesthetic choices of the print. The absorbent nature of the paper allows for subtle gradations of color and tone, which enhances the delicacy of the floral forms. The visible wood grain adds texture, contrasting with the refined lines of the image. This print reflects the wider social context of Edo-period Japan, where *ukiyo-e* prints were widely produced and consumed by the merchant classes. The labor-intensive process required skilled artisans, and the prints themselves circulated as both artworks and commercial products. Understanding the materiality and techniques of this print allows us to appreciate its cultural significance. It challenges the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft, celebrating the artistry of everyday objects.