Illustration of the Police Superintendent and his men Receiving Wine (Keishi kakutai e sake tamawaru mono no zu) 1877

This colorful woodblock print was made by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi in Japan. It depicts a celebration with a police superintendent and his men. Consider the process: each color requires a separate block, carved with precision. The registration, or alignment, of these blocks is crucial, demanding great skill. The visual effect hinges on the qualities of the paper, ink, and the pressure applied during printing. This isn’t just a pretty picture; it’s a window into the social dynamics of Meiji-era Japan, where Western influences were transforming traditional society. The print captures a moment of leisure, but also reflects hierarchies of power. There’s a lot of labor on display here, from the unseen work of the woodblock carvers and printers, to the implied labor of those serving the police. Paying attention to the materials and processes used, we can gain insight into the social and cultural context of this vibrant print. In doing so, we bridge the gap between what is traditionally thought of as fine art, and the rich world of craft and design.