Bonito (Katsuo) and Yukinoshita (Saxifrage), from the series A Shoal of Fishes (Uo-zukushi) c. 19th century

Editor: This is Utagawa Hiroshige's woodblock print, "Bonito (Katsuo) and Yukinoshita (Saxifrage)," from his series "A Shoal of Fishes." I’m struck by how vibrant the blue is against the muted background. What do you make of this combination? Curator: It’s a surprisingly playful tension, isn't it? The bonitos, considered delicacies, juxtaposed with the delicate Saxifrage flowers. It almost feels like a celebration of impermanence, a fleeting moment of beauty and taste. What story do you think Hiroshige is trying to tell? Editor: Perhaps it's about the fleeting nature of beauty and life, like you said. I never would have considered that. Curator: Absolutely. It makes you wonder about the everyday rituals and artistry hidden within the ordinary! Editor: I'll definitely look at Hiroshige's art with new eyes now.