Scene from Kabuki Theatre: Shower of Flames c. 1857 - 1862

Curator: This is Utagawa Kunisada's woodblock print, titled "Scene from Kabuki Theatre: Shower of Flames," now housed at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The first thing that strikes me is the combination of fragility and danger. The flames and turbulent sea juxtaposed with the delicate floral kimono is quite arresting. Curator: Kunisada was a leading designer of ukiyo-e prints in 19th-century Edo. Kabuki theatre was incredibly popular, and prints like these served as advertisements, as well as collectible souvenirs for theatergoers. Editor: Note how the flames, almost ghost-like, frame the figure, suggesting not literal fire but perhaps emotional turmoil, an internal struggle made visible through symbolic imagery. The waves also feel very alive. Curator: Kabuki often drew upon folklore and historical narratives, imbuing familiar stories with new, contemporary political meanings for its audience. Editor: The floral pattern on her robes, those cherry blossoms, could symbolize the fleeting nature of life, adding another layer to the drama. A powerful image. Curator: Exactly, Kunisada captures a pivotal moment, full of tension and visual storytelling. Editor: It makes you want to know the story behind the performance, doesn't it?