Shun the Great (Dai Shun), from the series The Twenty-four Paragons of Filial Piety in China (Morokoshi nijÅ«shi kō) c. 1848

Editor: This woodblock print by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, titled "Shun the Great," shows a child seemingly directing two huge elephants. I'm fascinated by the contrast between the small figure and these massive creatures. What can you tell me about the materials and process that went into creating this image? Curator: The woodblock print is itself a testament to labor and collaboration. Think about the carving of the blocks, the layering of inks, and the paper itself – each element points to specific craft traditions and material access. How does considering the means of production change your perception of the image? Editor: It makes me think about the resources available and the skill involved. Curator: Exactly. The image of Shun might be about filial piety, but the print itself is about production and consumption. This informs not only its meaning, but also its value in society. Editor: That's a completely different way of looking at it. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. Considering the means of production is essential for a complete understanding.