Dance of the Star of Longevity at Kaimongatake, Makurazaki, Satsuma Province (SasshÅ« Makurazaki Kaimongatake Jusei odori), from the series One Hundred Famous Views in the Various Provinces (Shokoku meisho hyakkei) c. 20th century

Editor: This woodblock print is titled "Dance of the Star of Longevity at Kaimongatake, Makurazaki, Satsuma Province," by Utagawa Hiroshige II, part of the series "One Hundred Famous Views in the Various Provinces." The dancers are… unusual. What's going on here? Curator: These figures, while appearing peculiar to our eyes, are central to understanding the socio-cultural context. The dance is likely tied to local rituals, perhaps celebrating harvests or appealing for longevity. Note how the print situates this folk performance within a landscape deemed worthy of fame. The "famous view" becomes a stage. How does that affect its perceived value? Editor: So the print elevates a local custom to a nationally recognized scene? It's interesting how the political landscape influences art, even landscape art! Curator: Precisely. Consider the power dynamics inherent in that act of representation. What does it mean for a region to be 'viewed' and categorized as 'famous' through art?