Shita-e
下絵
The preliminary sketch made by the artist before the final drawing. Multiple shita-e might be produced as the design evolved through discussion with the publisher.
Related Terms
Sabi
寂
An aesthetic concept embracing the beauty of imperfection, transience, and the patina of age. While more associated with ceramics and gardens, sabi influenced the appreciation of subtle, atmospheric effects in prints.
Sanmaitsuzuki
三枚続
A triptych—three sheets designed as a continuous composition. Triptychs allowed artists to create panoramic landscapes, multi-figure scenes, and dramatic battle compositions on a grand scale.
Seal
印
Red stamps appearing on prints that identify the artist, publisher, carver, and (in later periods) censor. Reading seals is essential for authentication, dating, and understanding a print's production history.