Woodblock prints are one of the earliest printing methods, and they were initially utilized to produce book pages and subsequent images. The original concept of woodblock printing was discovered in China. Afterward, the Japanese adopted the method and raised it to the peak of artistry and creative expression over decades. Buddhism became a common religion in China when woodblock printmaking started in Asia. In the sixteenth century, the Japanese introduced the craft of printing scriptures with woodblocks and started utilizing them for both illustration and text. Woodblock printing in Japan has created several stunning and well-known images that are adorned even today.
Woodblock printing became more democratized when images were replicated in books and as single prints in several editions, making the artworks more available, easily distributed, and enjoyable. Most popular woodblock prints in Japan date from the Edo and Meiji eras. Throughout this era, Japan underwent major cultural, political, and creative changes that made art more available and affordable. Ukiyo-e is the title given to Japanese woodblock prints made in these styles. The printing methods, color palettes, distinct visual design, and themes inspired European painters in the 1800s greatly. Similarly, the themes of the woodblock prints range from sensual to exquisite to subversively humorous.
The vintage and antique woodblock prints for sale have been the center of attraction at various auction platforms all over the world. Similarly, Bidsquare also offers a diverse collection of woodblock prints at online auction along with its intriguing history. You can find vintage and antique woodblock prints for sale at Bidsquare.