Schildpadden 1890 - 1900

Curator: Immediately, I see patience. It feels so still, and even contemplative, doesn't it? Editor: We’re looking at a print called "Schildpadden," which translates to "Turtles," by Tsukioka Kogyo, likely created between 1890 and 1900. What strikes you about it? Curator: That incredible rock face! It's almost oppressive, looming over the scene, but then you spot the little turtles. Is it me, or is the composition slightly surreal? Editor: Surreal, perhaps, in how it utilizes familiar symbolic contrasts. In many cultures, the turtle is an enduring symbol of longevity, wisdom, and perseverance—often juxtaposed against imposing forces to emphasize resilience. The dark mass could represent chaos, obstacles or just old age of nature itself. Curator: Yes! Obstacles, that’s exactly it! The artist contrasts the dark ominous crag, and the vulnerable, persistent turtles with their ancient wisdom navigating life’s…shall we say, pond? What about those wispy strokes along the rock face – are those waves, or… some sort of life force? Editor: Given Kogyo’s immersion in the Ukiyo-e tradition and the rise of Japonisme at the time, that ‘life force’ may reflect both spiritual and aesthetic currents. Notice how the mist-like quality blurs boundaries; that interplay of ink washes is quite intentional in terms of guiding your eye around the piece and adding this delicate almost melancholic feel to it. Curator: I do feel like Kogyo used these muted washes to subtly soften the imposing form to help balance darkness. Also, notice how Kogyo added only minimal detailing to the turtle; in doing so it allows its form to have so much expression that it represents resilience while also conveying it has been worn and weathered by the same dark ominous thing next to it. It feels a tad voyeuristic watching this creature and its persistence within the grander landscape. I suppose this reflects humanity’s impact, as well as vice versa, on the grander nature that envelops us. Editor: Precisely! And that blend encapsulates the strength inherent in perseverance when facing adversity, something resonant across centuries and cultures. It’s remarkable to witness that theme through the eyes, and brushstrokes, of Kogyo over a century ago.