Horse with Saddle 19th century

Editor: We're looking at "Horse with Saddle," a ceramic sculpture from the 19th century, made by Kawamoto Hansuke IV. I find it charming; it feels almost like a toy. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: What interests me most is its potential context. During the Meiji period, Japan underwent rapid modernization. Objects like this, rendered in ceramic yet depicting a saddled horse, suggest a negotiation between tradition and Western influence. Editor: So, the horse, a classic image, is presented in a way that reflects changing times? Curator: Precisely. Ceramics, deeply rooted in Japanese artistry, here capture an animal often associated with military power and trade. It prompts us to ask: Who was this made for? Was it a display of skill, a symbol of aspiration, or even a commentary on societal shifts? The saddle also appears rather formal... do you think that was a commissioned object or made for someone of a certain class? Editor: I hadn’t considered the intended audience so explicitly. The way it combines traditional material with what could be a commentary on the modern era adds a layer I hadn’t picked up on initially. Curator: Indeed, understanding the socio-political context enriches our viewing experience, doesn't it? The charm you mentioned transforms into something far more profound when we examine its historical underpinnings. Editor: I completely agree. Seeing art through the lens of history really brings out hidden narratives.