Woman Dressing in Long Undergarment Possibly 1920 - 1929

Curator: Here we see Hashiguchi Goyō's woodblock print, "Woman Dressing in Long Undergarment," held at the Harvard Art Museums. It's striking. Editor: Yes, there's an intense vulnerability. The woman's gaze is lowered, almost melancholic. The floral patterns on her kimono, even in monochrome, speak of fleeting beauty. Curator: The artist was a key figure in the Shin-Hanga movement, reviving traditional ukiyo-e techniques while updating them with modern sensibilities. It highlights the female form. Editor: The fan she holds could be interpreted as a shield, but it also hints at feminine allure. It's interesting to think about how Japanese art dealt with female representation in the early 20th century. Curator: It's a fascinating piece that offers a glimpse into the complexities of identity during a period of rapid modernization in Japan. Editor: Indeed. It makes you wonder about the untold stories held within the imagery and what they may say to us today.