Puella Magi Madoka Magica Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print - The Law of Cycles
© Magica Quartet / Aniplex, Madoka Movie Project
The animation studio Shaft's illustration of "Puella Magi Madoka Magica" will be released as an Ukiyo-e woodblock print on July 13th (Sat) at 12:00 JST.
Available in Japan, North America, and other territories.
■ First Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print of "Puella Magi Madoka Magica
The protagonist, Madoka Kaname, becomes a magical girl to free all magical girls from the tragic cycle of becoming witches due to despair. Her wish is immense, transforming Madoka herself into the new concept of the world, "Law of Cycles." This "Law of Cycles" is an unobservable, untouchable existence that appears to lead magical girls out of despair when they are about to become witches. We have produced an Ukiyo-e woodblock print featuring the "Ultimate Madoka" illustration by Shaft, the animation studio of "Puella Magi Madoka Magica." Please enjoy the detailed craftsmanship of this Ukiyo-e, carefully recreated by skilled artisans.
■ Creating Ukiyo-e Woodblock Prints
Ukiyo-e is a traditional Japanese craft, but the entire industry is currently in crisis. The number of artisans inheriting this tradition from the Edo period has dwindled to a few dozen across Japan. Despite efforts to train young artisans, the production volume, including raw materials, is decreasing daily.
Collaborating with active artisans (painters, carvers, printers) who strive to preserve and continue this woodblock print technique, we aim to introduce the beauty of Ukiyo-e from a new perspective to people worldwide. We seek to contribute to the continuation and development of this proud Japanese culture. We want to deliver to you the essence of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
Commitment to Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print Production
Echizen Kizuki Housho by Living National Treasure Ichibei Iwano
《Ninth Generation Ichibei Iwano》
Named the ninth-generation Ichibei Iwano in 1978.
Recognized as a holder of the important intangible cultural property "Echizen Housho" (Living National Treasure) in June 2000.
Continues to produce "Echizen Kizuki Housho," a washi (Japanese paper) made from kozo (mulberry) based on Japanese tradition and history.
This ultimate washi, known for its smooth brush stroke and durability, is used for ritual papers and prints, enduring the pressure of hundreds of woodblock printings.
[Carving]
Ukiyo-e woodblock printing starts with dividing the woodblock based on the design and carving each part by color. This highly detailed work requires precision, as even a 1mm deviation can significantly impact the entire image. The perfection achieved without any misalignment is a testament to the artisan's years of training. Everything, including the outlines, hair, shapes, titles, and backgrounds, is carved by hand. Due to the delicate nature of the woodblock, only limited productions are possible, as repeated printing can cause chipping or damage.
Carver - Kayoko Suga
After graduating high school, she applied for the Tokyo Arakawa City Craftsman Training Support Project and trained as an Ukiyo-e woodblock print carver for seven years before becoming independent. Currently, as one of the few female traditional craftsmen certified by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, she contributes to preserving Ukiyo-e woodblock print culture with her exceptional skills. She has demonstrated her craft at various exhibitions, including the Edo-Tokyo Museum and Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi.
[Printing]
Next, the traditional pigments are applied, and the printing begins. Precision is crucial, as even a 1mm deviation or weak pressure can cause misalignment.
The color tone can only be determined after printing, requiring the artisan to change pigments dozens of times to achieve the ultimate colors.
Printer - Tatsuya Ito
Born in Tokyo Nezu in 1965, he succeeded his father, the fourth-generation Itou Chiro, in 1985 and trained under master Bunpuku Ogawa.
He has demonstrated his craft at various exhibitions and is recognized as a craftsman by the Agency for Cultural Affairs for his expertise in intangible cultural properties.
■ Swarovski Adds Brilliance to the "Puella Magi Madoka Magica" Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print
■ Product information
Title: "Law of Cycles"
Price: 65,000 yen + tax and shipping
Limited Edition: 300 pieces
Includes: Framed box & Ukiyo-e woodblock print certificate
Specifications: Picture (W: approx. 243mm × H: approx. 363 mm), Frame (W: approx. 432mm × H: approx. 547mm × D: 40mm)
Materials: Wood frame, plywood back, paper mat
Washi: Echizen Kizuki Housho by Living National Treasure Ichibei Iwano
Carver: Kayoko Suga
Printer: Tatsuya Ito
Swarovski Decoration: MOKO (Karma Creative)
Ukiyo-e Publisher: Hanzou Co., Ltd.
The product will be delivered in an original frame box with Ukiyo-e patterns, and a certificate of authenticity will be included, proving it was made using traditional Ukiyo-e woodblock printing techniques.
© Magica Quartet / Aniplex, Madoka Movie Project
