Yoshiwara Benkei, (Number 11) from the series Famous Scenes from Japanese Puppet Plays (Yamato irotake) c. 1705 - 1706

Curator: Okumura Masanobu's woodblock print, "Yoshiwara Benkei," part of the series "Famous Scenes from Japanese Puppet Plays," presents an intriguing figure. Editor: There’s a dynamic energy to it. The diagonal lines formed by the broom and box create a sense of movement, even though the figure is stationary. Curator: The print draws upon the popular puppet theater, featuring Benkei, a warrior monk, but reimagined within the Yoshiwara, the pleasure district. It speaks to the theatricality and performative aspects of Edo period society. Editor: The artist is clearly playing with contrasts. The bold patterns of the clothing, juxtaposed with the minimal color palette, emphasize form and line. Curator: Masanobu cleverly blends high and low culture. Benkei's legendary status is juxtaposed with the world of entertainment and commercialism, which suggests the breakdown of rigid social hierarchies. Editor: I agree. The composition's asymmetrical balance, the expressive line work, it all contributes to the print’s immediate visual impact. Curator: Indeed, it reflects shifts in cultural values and the increasing influence of the merchant class in Japanese society at the time. Editor: A powerful piece, full of visual and cultural tension.