Two Geisha 1787 - 1867

This print of two geisha was made by Kikugawa Eizan in Japan, using woodblock printing. Woodblock printing is a labor-intensive process, where each color requires a separate block, carefully carved and registered to create the final image. The process reflects the close collaboration between the artist, the carver, and the printer, all contributing their expertise to the final product. The lines are crisp, and the colors are flat and vibrant, typical of ukiyo-e prints of this period. These prints were produced for a mass market, reflecting the rise of a merchant class and a culture of consumption in Edo-period Japan. The geisha, as symbols of beauty and refinement, became popular subjects, their images circulating widely. This print thus straddles the line between art and commodity, challenging traditional hierarchies. The artistry is undeniable, but so is its connection to a wider social and economic context. By focusing on the materials, the making, and the context, we can understand the full meaning of this print, moving beyond traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.