from the series Illustrated Tale of the Soga Brothers (Soga monogatari zue) c. 20th century

Curator: Here we have a woodblock print by Utagawa Hiroshige, dating from around the mid-19th century, part of a series illustrating the Tale of the Soga Brothers. It is currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The colours grab me immediately. That intense red against the cool blues and greens creates a striking contrast! Curator: It's a classic example of ukiyo-e, depicting a scene from a popular historical narrative. These prints served as mass entertainment, affordable to a wide audience. Editor: The lines are so defined. I wonder about the carving process. How many blocks were used to achieve this level of detail in the garments and the facial expressions? Curator: The story itself is about revenge, honour, and social upheaval. The Soga brothers avenging their father's death resonated deeply within the samurai culture, also influencing theatre and popular culture. Editor: Thinking about production, it’s fascinating how these prints, crafted with skilled labour, circulated so widely, shaping cultural understanding. Curator: Absolutely, it reflects a complex interplay between artistry, commerce, and the dissemination of ideology. Editor: Makes you consider the accessibility of art, even back then. It wasn't just for the elite. Curator: Indeed. It's a reminder that art serves diverse functions, reflecting and shaping societal values in profound ways. Editor: A captivating glimpse into artistry and social dynamics.