Benzaiten (Goddess of Music and Good Fortune) Seated on a White Dragon 1832

Curator: This tempera print from 1832 presents Aoigaoka Keisei's vision of Benzaiten, the Japanese goddess of music and good fortune, seated upon a white dragon. The artwork resides here at The Met. Editor: It’s striking! I’m immediately drawn to the stark contrast between the figure and the dark background and how that enhances the ethereal quality of both the goddess and the dragon. Curator: The contrast definitely guides the eye. Considering Benzaiten's role, we see the lute, or biwa, which immediately positions her within a tradition of music and art. The dragon, powerful yet subdued, is fascinating as well, its whiteness representing purity and benevolence. What is your take on the pairing? Editor: Seeing a female deity with a dragon, the embodiment of wisdom, prosperity, and power, speaks to shifting societal views on women and power during the Edo period. It’s almost a statement. The inclusion of text suggests poetry of the time reflecting social harmony or spiritual reflection, perhaps? Curator: Yes, it very well could be. Aoigaoka Keisei utilizes powerful, established iconography here. This imagery spoke to desires for good fortune, protection, and artistry. But how might contemporary audiences interpret this blend of religious icon, mythical beast, and traditional musical instrument? Editor: We're still fascinated by similar combinations. It seems we remain deeply drawn to mythical, fantastical depictions that speak to ideas of strength, beauty, and transcendence. This fusion of the sacred and the mythical provides insight into a very important aspect of Japanese society during the time. Curator: Absolutely. What this print represents to those who observe it allows us a glimpse into the human psyche and reveals desires that have existed throughout history. Editor: Yes, there are clear connections between then and now and how the narrative woven with ink and pigment invites us into a deeper conversation about power, peace, and the pursuit of harmony.