About Edo Layers

Our Mission

Edo Layers was founded with deep reverence for the artistic traditions of Japan's Edo period. Our digital studio and marketplace explores the historical significance of ukiyo-e woodblock prints and contemporary collecting culture. We focus on the works of master artists Hokusai and Hiroshige, featuring both original prints and contemporary reproductions.

Our mission extends beyond commerce—we are dedicated to exploring the traditional mokuhanga printing techniques through hands-on workshops and educational programs. Each piece in our collection comes with detailed provenance and historical context, helping collectors understand not just the artistic value, but the cultural significance of these works.

Traditional Craftsmanship

At our Tokyo studio, we explore the authentic multi-layer printing process that has remained unchanged for centuries. Our artisans work with traditional tools and materials—hand-carved cherry wood blocks, water-based pigments, and authentic washi paper. This focus on traditional methods helps maintain the subtle textures and color gradations that make Japanese woodblock prints distinctive.

We also provide conservation services, applying museum-quality techniques to preserve antique prints for future generations. Our archival framing and documentation services help collectors maintain their investments while honoring the artistic integrity of these historical works.

Cultural Scholarship

Beyond our marketplace and workshop, Edo Layers serves as a center for scholarly research into Edo period urban culture. Our curated essays explore the social and economic contexts that gave rise to ukiyo-e, examining how these "pictures of the floating world" reflected the vibrant merchant culture of historical Tokyo. We believe that understanding the cultural significance of these works enhances their appreciation and helps maintain their continued relevance in contemporary art discourse.

Our research team collaborates with museums, universities, and private collectors worldwide to document and preserve the legacy of Japanese woodblock printing. Through digital archiving and scholarly publication, we work to ensure that future generations will have access to both the artworks themselves and the rich cultural context that gave them meaning.