Rules for the Department of Young Ladies (Shōgaku Joreishiki zukai) c. late 19th century

Curator: This is Adachi Ginkō's print, "Rules for the Department of Young Ladies," held here at the Harvard Art Museums. I’m struck by the intricate detail in the figures' garments. Editor: Yes, and the overall composition, split into two distinct scenes, feels very orderly. It reminds me of educational diagrams and their efforts to impose social structures. Curator: Ginkō, active in the late 19th century, was known for his woodblock prints. Think about the labor-intensive process of carving those blocks to achieve these very subtle gradations of tone! Editor: It's fascinating how this print visualizes the prescribed roles for women. The contrast between the interior spaces suggests different spheres of activity and stages of socialization. Curator: Exactly. Consider the material culture represented: the lacquerware, the textiles…each element speaks to a particular level of craftsmanship and consumption. Editor: Right. It is also a commentary on the performance of femininity, the weight of cultural expectations that were placed on young women during this period. Curator: A powerful visualization of societal expectations through material depiction. Editor: Definitely, and one that resonates even today when we consider gender roles.