Fujimigahara in Owari Province c. 1834 - 1837

Hokumyō created this print, Fujimigahara in Owari Province, in the 1830s using woodblock printing, a technique deeply rooted in Japanese craft traditions. This method involves carving a design into a block of wood, applying ink, and then pressing paper onto the block to transfer the image. Look closely, and you'll notice the intricate lines and patterns achieved through this process. The distinct texture and slightly uneven color application bear witness to the hand-crafted nature of the print. What's fascinating is how this traditional technique intersects with depictions of labor and landscape. The print portrays a scene of rural life, possibly referencing the labor involved in constructing or maintaining the land. Hokumyō’s choice of woodblock printing elevates these everyday scenes, suggesting that the labor and traditions embedded in craft are just as valuable as the subject matter itself. Ultimately, this print reminds us that materials, making, and context are inseparable from understanding the full meaning of an artwork.