Asahina Saburô 1823

This print of Asahina Saburô was made by Yashima Gakutei in Japan using woodblock printing, a painstaking process involving the precise carving of separate blocks for each color. The materiality of wood lends a distinctive character to the image, especially when we consider its texture and the way it accepts ink. See how Gakutei’s work has a graphic quality, with flat planes of color and bold outlines. This reflects the inherent nature of the medium, where detail is achieved through careful cutting rather than painterly effects. Woodblock printing also demands a collaborative effort, as artisans are needed to carve, ink, and print the blocks, each contributing their skills to the final product. The production process of woodblock prints like this one had deep social implications, providing livelihoods for numerous artisans. By appreciating the materials, making, and context of this print, we recognize the inherent value of craft and the importance of acknowledging the labor involved in its creation.