Fan (Kyō ōgi) from the series Sights and Specialties of Yamashiro Province (Yamashiro meisho meibutsu) 1818 - 1830

Editor: This woodblock print, "Fan from the series Sights and Specialties of Yamashiro Province" by Keisai Eisen, features a fan overlaid with camellias and calligraphy. What do you see in this piece beyond the surface level? Curator: I see a commentary on the Edo period's evolving relationship with nature and commerce. Fans, initially symbols of status, became mass-produced objects. Eisen juxtaposes this with the natural world, perhaps questioning the authenticity of artistic expression within a rapidly commercializing society. Note the public display of cultural literacy within this form. Editor: So, it's not just a pretty picture, but a reflection on the changing role of art in society? Curator: Exactly. How does the accessibility of art influence its perceived value and meaning? Editor: I hadn’t considered how the commercialization of art changes its message!