The Tale of Sagoromo, from the series "Ten Courtly Tales for the Honcho Circle (Honchoren monogatari juban)" c. 1820

This color woodblock print, "The Tale of Sagoromo", by Yashima Gakutei, presents us with a scene steeped in Heian-era elegance, focusing on music and poetry. The central figure, likely Sagoromo himself, is playing the flute. The flute, or fue, was not merely a musical instrument but a symbol of refinement, often linked to courtly love and poetic inspiration. The women above, perhaps celestial beings or courtly ladies, are adorned in layered robes, the jūnihitoe, indicative of their high status and the aesthetic value placed on elaborate attire. These robes, like those seen in other artworks across cultures, serve as a potent emblem of power and social standing. Consider the image of layered fabrics across time—from the draped figures of classical sculptures to the flowing garments of Renaissance portraits. Each era imbues these textiles with new meanings, reflecting the evolving social and psychological landscapes. They remind us that visual symbols are not static but are constantly being reimagined.