Right or Wrong?
ukiyo-e Reproductions

Ukiyo-e has always been an art for the Japanese “common man.” Throughout its history, it has been produced in mass quantities. All Japanese woodblock prints, regardless of age, fall into one of several categories: an original, a reprint (re-strike or reissue), a pirated edition, a reproduction, or a fake. Some of these classifications may sound similar, yet they are each quite distinct. In addition, in many cases one can barely distinguish an “original” from its “reprint.” However, there are strong distinctions between these kinds of prints.

What is an original woodblock print?

An original woodblock print is generally accepted as any print made while the artist was still living from the original woodblocks that were created from the artist ’s original designs.

What is a reprint?

Reprints are prints which are made from the original blocks, but usually only after the artist has died. Oftentimes, these reprints, or “reissues,” are printed using fewer colors on paper of a lesser quality.

What is a “pirated” edition of a print?

Much like a “pirated” song or movie of today, a “pirated” print is a print that is made from copied woodblock and reprinted during the life of the artist. These are extremely rare editions that either directly copied a design or created a design in the style of the artist.

What is a reproduction?

A reproduction is created from recut blocks based on an original woodblock. A large number of reproductions were created during the Meiji period (1868-1911) and, not surprisingly, are still being produced today.

What is a fake?

According to one source a fake is “a reproduction meant to deceive, often simulating the effects of age or older pigments and papers.” The only difference between a reproduction and a fake is the intent of the artist.

When examining a woodblock print, there are a few key attributes to look for in order to determine its originality: key-block lines, quality of colors, types of papers, style of printing, and size of paper. Compare your print to an original. Since many of us do not have “originals” just lying around, find a photographic copy of an original for comparison. When comparing the key-block lines, a reproduction will show variations in line. While repeated printing can cause even an original to show variation, it is important to observe other attributes of the print. The colors between originals and reproductions will also vary, as the hues that have been used in woodblock printing have changed over time. In addition, the type of paper used in printing is very important when determining its originality. Kozo paper is the most common paper used in ukiyo-e printing. Kozo is a mulberry paper and its absorbent qualities, as well as other characteristics, make it the ideal for woodblock printing. Although modern papers tend to be harder and rougher than traditional Japanese hand-made paper, not all “soft” feeling papers are originals. During the Meiji period, the artists created reproductions that were so perfect, many experts today find it difficult to distinguish the reproduction from the original. In addition to paper quality, print quality and size are other important features to consider when examining a print. Print quality decreased with every additional print that was pulled from the blocks. Blocks would eventually wear down and the lines would become less sharp. More importantly, original prints were published in specific sizes. Therefore, variations in the traditional sizes, or any of the previously listed features could suggest that your “original” is only a reproduction.

Martee Reeg