A Young French Lady and a Siamese Servant Taking a Dog for a Walk 1860

This 14 x 10 inch woodblock print, titled "A Young French Lady and a Siamese Servant Taking a Dog for a Walk," was created by Utagawa Sadahide in Japan. It’s a fascinating artifact reflecting Japan’s engagement with the West during the 19th century. The print offers a glimpse into the social dynamics of the time, portraying a French woman and her Siamese servant. The image invites us to consider the identities of those depicted, including the artist himself. How did Sadahide perceive the interactions between the French woman and her Siamese servant? This work provides a historical account of cultural exchange and the dynamics of power and representation. Such representations often served to reinforce cultural stereotypes and hierarchies. Consider, for example, the way the Siamese servant’s skin is rendered darker than the French lady. This artistic choice might have been influenced by existing notions of race and class. What this print really tells us, is the story of Japan's perception of the West during this period of increased global interaction.