View of the Whirlpools at Awa (Awa Naruto no fûkei), from an untitled set of three triptychs Possibly 1857

Curator: This is Utagawa Hiroshige's woodblock print, "View of the Whirlpools at Awa," part of a triptych. It depicts the Naruto Straits. My first impression is of immense energy contained within such delicate lines! Editor: The carving is exquisite. Look at how the waves are made visible, almost tangible; you can practically feel the pull of the whirlpools. The materiality of the wood and ink really emphasize the power of nature as a force. Curator: Indeed, and these whirlpools were historically dangerous for shipping. They became a popular subject in art, literature, and even folklore, representing nature’s untamed power and its impact on human activity. Editor: I wonder about the labor involved in creating this print. The process, from carving to printing, highlights the skill and collaboration between artist and artisan. Each impression would slightly vary based on the materials. Curator: I agree. Also, the image itself speaks to the Japanese concept of "mono no aware," the pathos of things, emphasizing the transient nature of beauty and the inevitability of change, captured here in the fleeting whirlpools. Editor: Considering its distribution, this print likely facilitated access to landscapes for a broad audience, not just the elite. The printmaking industry itself transformed how people saw and consumed images of nature. Curator: A wonderful insight! This print encapsulates the beauty and danger of the natural world, reminding us of the interconnectedness between people, resources, and our shared experiences. Editor: Absolutely, and considering the craft, it prompts us to think about the human labor embedded within these artistic landscapes and their implications within society.