The Poet Sojo Henjo, from the series "Six Immortal Poets (Rokkasen)" c. 1785

Torii Kiyonaga created this woodblock print titled "The Poet Sojo Henjo," as part of his series "Six Immortal Poets," situated within the vibrant artistic and cultural landscape of Japan. During Kiyonaga's time, prints often reflected the pleasure-seeking culture of the Edo period, yet here, Kiyonaga offers something more nuanced. We see two women in an outdoor setting; one stands regally, her gaze directed slightly upward, while the other kneels by the water, seemingly lost in contemplation as she reaches for a small plant. It’s a study in contrasts – between activity and stillness, engagement and detachment. The series title, "Six Immortal Poets," suggests a connection to classical literary traditions, but Kiyonaga reimagines this theme through the lens of contemporary life. He does this not by depicting male poets directly, but by hinting at their spirit through the presence and activities of women. In their quiet beauty, Kiyonaga asks us to consider the many forms that creativity and expression can take, while reminding us of the subtle ways women find and claim space for themselves.