Ebisu, Dieu Du Bonheur Personnifie Par Une Courtisane Du Shimabara. Kyoto, Japon 1952

Curator: Let’s talk about this radiant print by Paul Jacoulet from 1952, entitled “Ebisu, Dieu Du Bonheur Personnifié Par Une Courtisane Du Shimabara. Kyoto, Japon.” It has a story to tell, I think. Editor: A courtisane embracing a massive carp? Visually arresting is definitely an understatement. The print work appears deceptively simple, until one gets closer, the patterns almost vibrate off the paper...what's the medium? Curator: Woodblock print, executed with astonishing detail. Jacoulet revived ukiyo-e traditions with a touch of modern flair. The composition, the placement… It’s rather startling and unique compared to classical ukiyo-e prints. He wasn't Japanese, of course, which adds to his distinctive artistic fingerprint. Editor: The fish, its texture, scale and central positioning begs an immediate question about Japanese labor practice for fishermen: this is also a symbolic inquiry into a masculine subject's dependence on their wives, maybe. Its opulence belies hard labor; what can you say about Jacoulet’s intentions? Curator: Well, Ebisu is one of the Seven Gods of Fortune, often depicted with a fish—so there’s a literal connection. Jacoulet combines this deity with a high-ranking courtesan; I interpret that the pursuit of joy intertwines earthly and spiritual realms and asks how one's cultural views impact the idea of "happiness". I always pause over the delicate fan she's holding. A hint of the power these women possessed, you think? Editor: More a material performance, using feminine wiles as a survival strategy. The tools—fans, cosmetics, kimonos—crafted by anonymous hands for specific roles. I feel as if it prompts me to think critically about material constraints; How are these constraints being exploited or overcome in Japan? Curator: Fascinating way to see the piece! Jacoulet captures a fleeting moment of pleasure infused with timeless symbolism—so whether the subject lives, to you, in their survival strategy is an open discussion. His work has the peculiar ability to distill a very private universe for interpretation! Editor: Exactly. Jacoulet delivers more than pretty colors; He urges questions about what sort of consumption creates a Japanese fantasy.