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woodblock printing

Woodblock printing is a traditional technique where an image is carved in reverse into a wooden block. The raised areas hold ink, which is then transferred onto paper or fabric by pressing. Artists carefully carve away the non-image parts, creating a relief. Once inked, the block is pressed onto the printing surface, producing a clear, detailed image. This method allows for multiple copies and was widely used before modern printing methods. It combines artistic carving with precise printmaking, resulting in historically significant artworks, especially in East Asia, but also in Europe and elsewhere.