No. 27, from the series Magic Lantern Slides of That Romantic Purple Figure (Sono sugata yukari no utsushi-e) c. 1847 - 1855

Editor: This is Utagawa Kunisada's "No. 27, from the series Magic Lantern Slides of That Romantic Purple Figure." The composition is wonderfully balanced. What strikes you most about its construction? Curator: The interplay between the figures and the architectural elements is fascinating. Note how the lines of the building are echoed in the curves of the umbrella and the fan. Editor: Yes, I see that now! And the color palette unifies the composition, too. Curator: Precisely. The muted tones and subtle gradations create a harmonious whole. Editor: It’s all so meticulously constructed. Thanks for pointing out those relationships! Curator: My pleasure. Studying such elements reveals the artist's intent more clearly.