'A Trial of Strength' Woodblock Print

After lying dormant for a few years, our Ukiyo-e Heroes series is back in the spotlight, and this is the first new print to join the line-up.

Designer Jed Henry spent dozens of hours -ahem- researching the game depicted here, exploring every corner of this vast magical world. We hope this design brings back fond memories for you of the first time your strength was tested, and with grit and determination, you emerged victorious!

This design requires many individual impressions to achieve a full range of color. David uses the finest quality of yamazakura (mountain cherry) to carve his printing blocks. The wood is capable of holding a very fine level of delicacy – every last detail is printed by the wood left standing, after the rest has been cut away.

The paper is handmade Echizen Hosho Washi, made by national living treasure, Iwano Ichibei IX. This is the exact same paper printers used over 200 years ago! You can see a video of Mr. Iwano at work here.

This print is in the traditional koban format – 7 x 9 inches (17.5 x 23 cm).

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