Via Hyperallergic

The exhibit Moku Hanga: The Art of Japanese Woodblock Printing may have ended in August, but you can check out images and a great discussion of the woodblock-print pattern books on Hyperallergic.

The items are displayed in just two glass cases, but they contain a wealth of visually rich art and historically fascinating information. The books were created in a time-span beginning in the late 18th century and ending in the early 20th century. They were presented for customers to select a favored design, after which craftsmen would paint or print the pattern on the surface of the purchased item, whether they were kimonos, screens, lacquered panels, umbrellas, wallpaper, or other commercial items. Despite the commercial usage of these books, they were made using exactly the same woodblock technique that is so highly prized in the art prints of Japanese masters like Utamaro and Haronobu.

Thanks to Nubui Kuduchi for the link!