Hōjō Tokiyori, from the series Twenty-Four Generals for the Katsushika Circle (Katsushika nijÅ«shishō) c. 1821

Editor: This woodblock print, "Hōjō Tokiyori, from the series Twenty-Four Generals for the Katsushika Circle," by Yashima Gakutei, shows a figure surrounded by books and writing implements. It feels very scholarly and peaceful to me. What strikes you about this image? Curator: I see a commentary on power and representation. Hōjō Tokiyori, a powerful figure, is depicted not as a warrior, but as a scholar. Gakutei seems to be suggesting that true authority comes not only from military might, but also from cultural and intellectual capital. Does this resonate with you? Editor: Absolutely! It makes me think about how even today, knowledge is power, and how access to education is a form of privilege. Curator: Exactly. And consider how Gakutei, through this print, is participating in and shaping that very discourse. It's a potent statement about the relationship between leadership and learning. Editor: That gives me a lot to think about – the intersection of power, knowledge, and artistic representation. Thanks!