Poem by Chosui, from the series "Five Fashionable Colors of Ink (Furyu goshiki-zumi)" c. 1768

This print, "Poem by Chosui," was created by Suzuki Harunobu in Japan in the 18th century. Two women stand closely together, seemingly sharing a private moment in a serene setting. The gesture of leaning or embracing can be traced across centuries, from ancient Roman sarcophagi depicting mourning figures to Renaissance paintings of intimate familial scenes. This motif speaks to a universal need for comfort and connection. Consider the countless depictions of the Madonna embracing the Christ child, echoing similar sentiments of protection and affection. The water basin evokes purification and renewal, a visual metaphor that taps into the collective unconscious desire for emotional cleansing. It reminds me of the role of water in baptism. Like gestures, symbols evolve, adapting to new cultural landscapes. Note the plum blossoms, with origins in Chinese art, adopted in Japan as a sign of resilience and perseverance due to their ability to bloom in winter. These symbols engage viewers on a deep, subconscious level. In our minds, we have an impulse to decipher meanings and weave connections, engaging with art as a dynamic interplay between past and present.