Uba Shizu of Nabeshima Praying Under a Waterfall from the series Zen Aku Sanjuroku Bijin (Thirty-six Virtuous or Evil Beauties) Possibly 1876

Editor: This woodblock print, "Uba Shizu of Nabeshima Praying Under a Waterfall," is by Toyohara Kunichika. The composition is striking, almost theatrical. What's your take on the historical context of this imagery? Curator: Kunichika was active during the Meiji era, a period of rapid modernization in Japan. His work reflects a fascination with both traditional subjects and contemporary society. The "Thirty-six Virtuous or Evil Beauties" series, as the title suggests, engages with the public perception of women and moral ambiguity. Does this image portray piety or something more complex, shaped by societal expectations? Editor: That's fascinating! It makes me reconsider my initial reading. Thanks for the insight. Curator: My pleasure. Thinking about the socio-political climate definitely enriches our understanding of the artwork.