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

Curator: This is Adachi Ginkō's "Rules for the Department of Young Ladies." Editor: The flat perspective and bold colors—especially that green mat—give the scene an almost stage-like quality, don't you think? Curator: Indeed, the composition directs our eyes to the text at the upper left, which seems integral to understanding the print's didactic intention. Consider the labor involved in creating each impression. Editor: Absolutely, the woodblock printing process itself, the carving of the blocks, the ink and paper used, all speak to the cultural values being transmitted. Curator: And the subtle variations in line and color add depth. Editor: It's fascinating how the materiality of the print intersects with the immaterial rules governing the young ladies' behavior. I appreciate your point about the didactic intention, that's a very good detail.