Japanese woodblock prints, or ukiyo-e ("pictures of the floating world"), are among the most iconic forms of Japanese art. Flourishing during the Edo period (1603–1868), ukiyo-e captured the spirit of a rapidly growing society with its unique beauty. What began as affordable art for the masses grew into a sophisticated genre, immortalising the beauty of everyday life, landscapes, and the human experience.

Albrecht Dürer is renowned for his exceptional engraving and printmaking skills. His works exhibit a mastery of technique and an in-depth understanding of symbolism and human experience. This blog post delves into three of Dürer's most celebrated engravings, known as his Meisterstiche, or master prints: 'Knight, Death and the Devil' (1513), 'Melencolia I' (1514) and 'St. Jerome in His Study' (1514). 

Woodblock printing is a medium that has been used for centuries to create art, signage, and prints. As the name suggests, it involves carving an image or pattern into a block of wood, which is then inked and used to print onto paper or fabric. Whether you're interested in creating your own woodblock prints or want to learn more about this fascinating medium, read on for a brief history!