Shirasuka: The Legend of Onnaya (Onnaya no den), from the series Fifty-three Pairings for the Tōkaidō Road (Tōkaidō gojÅ«san tsui) c. 20th century

Curator: This woodblock print by Utagawa Hiroshige is titled *Shirasuka: The Legend of Onnaya*, part of the *Fifty-three Pairings for the Tōkaidō Road* series. I'm struck by the solitary figure and the quiet mood. What stands out to you? Editor: Well, I'm drawn to her posture, almost melancholic. What could that suggest about the role of women in society at the time? Curator: Exactly! Hiroshige often uses women to symbolize resilience amidst societal constraints. The Onnaya legend itself speaks to female agency in storytelling. How might this image challenge or reinforce traditional gender roles? Editor: I guess it shows women as strong figures but also burdened by expectations, which is contradictory. Thanks, that gives me a lot to think about. Curator: It's in that contradiction that the work finds its power. I've enjoyed this conversation.