(Mountain lift) c. 1844s

Shōshū created this print of a mountain lift using ink and color on paper. The artwork presents a seemingly simple scene, but it invites us to consider the cultural and social dynamics embedded within its delicate lines. During the Edo period in Japan, travel, including mountain ascents, was a privilege influenced by one's social class. Woodblock prints like this one captured both the real and imagined experiences of such journeys, often romanticizing the connection between humanity and nature. The inclusion of Japanese calligraphy reflects the integration of poetry and visual art, integral to the cultural expression of the time. Contemplate how Shōshū evokes a sense of longing and admiration for the natural world, emotions heightened by the constraints and societal norms that shaped individual experiences. The mountain lift is not just a mechanical device, it becomes a poignant symbol of access, aspiration, and the complex interplay between culture, identity, and environment.