Picture Book: Selected Insects (Ehon mushi erabi) in 2 Volumes Possibly 1788

Curator: This is "Picture Book: Selected Insects" by Kitagawa Utamaro, from the Mid Edo period. The dimensions are roughly 27 by 18 centimeters. It is a two-volume set held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My initial reaction is that it appears quite fragile. The faded cover hints at a well-loved, aged quality. It gives an immediate impression of historical weight. Curator: Absolutely. We see a connection to the natural world, but also an aesthetic engagement with the book as a constructed object, including paper quality and the process of printing. Editor: And the muted palette—the subtle variations in tone—create a sense of depth despite the flat, printed design. I think the geometry of the repeated motifs adds a layer of visual interest. Curator: The geometric motifs would appeal to a consumer base familiar with particular patterns related to their social standing. Editor: A rich material history layered with visual intrigue. Curator: Indeed, a fascinating example of Utamaro's broader artistic output.