History and Techniques of Ukiyo-e Woodblock Prints

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the fundamental techniques of ukiyo-e woodblock printing and their historical development from approximately 1680 to 1930. First, it examines the early period of ukiyo-e, during which woodblock printing techniques evolved progressively from monochrome ink prints (sumizuri-e) to tan-e, beni-e, and benizuri-e. It then considers nishiki-e, which achieved highly sophisticated multicolor printing, and analyzes each stage’s techniques and characteristicsin chronological order. The paper also outlines the production process involving publishers, designers, block carvers, and printers and introduces major carving and printing techniques that were specific to ukiyo-e. Finally, it discusses the pigments employed in ukiyo-e printing, with particular emphasis on blue pigments, the development of which was particularly dynamic.