Nishiki-e

錦絵

Full-color woodblock prints, literally 'brocade pictures,' developed in 1765 by Harunobu. The technique used multiple blocks (sometimes over 20) to create rich, layered colors rivaling textile brocades. This innovation revolutionized ukiyo-e and remained the standard until the late 19th century.

Related Terms

Nagaban

長判

An elongated print format measuring approximately 52 x 25.6 cm, used for vertical compositions of standing figures or tall landscapes.

Nunome-zuri

布目摺

A technique that impressed fabric texture onto the print by pressing cloth against the dampened paper before printing. This created realistic textile effects for depicting garments.

Aiban

間判

A medium-sized print format measuring approximately 33 x 23 cm. The term translates to 'intermediate size' and was commonly used for actor prints and bijin-ga during the Edo period.

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