Nine Scenes from the Tale of Genji c. early 17th century

Curator: Here we have "Nine Scenes from the Tale of Genji," attributed to Tawaraya Sōtatsu, dating from the early 17th century. The work is currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Editor: My immediate reaction is this: it's sumptuous! The gold leaf positively radiates opulence, doesn't it? Almost aggressively luxurious. Curator: Absolutely. The gold acts as a symbolic ground, signifying power, wealth, and the elevated status of the aristocratic world depicted in The Tale of Genji, an epic work of Japanese literature. Editor: Right. It also seems that the use of watercolor adds a delicate, ephemeral quality contrasting sharply with the gold—watercolor versus this almost industrial looking application of gold. A sort of pre-modern industrial feel. Curator: Indeed, the watercolors lend themselves well to the Yamato-e style, capturing the lyrical, poetic qualities associated with this classical Japanese aesthetic tradition. The scenes chosen would likely resonate deeply with contemporary audiences as significant moments from Genji’s story, filled with allusions to themes of love, loss, and the fleeting nature of existence. Editor: I find myself wanting to know more about the screens themselves. Was this piece commissioned? The labour involved must have been extensive, preparing and applying the gold leaf, carefully layering the watercolour details. Who was this made *for*, and how did its purpose impact the process of its production? Curator: Excellent question! The scale and extravagance certainly suggest a commission for someone of very high social standing, someone who not only appreciated the aesthetic beauty of the piece, but also wished to visually demonstrate their cultural knowledge and refinement. Displaying such screens was a social statement. Editor: So its very materiality broadcasts its social context. Gold, pigment, and labour working in perfect, visually arresting harmony to communicate meaning and social class. It's a compelling synthesis, actually. Curator: It truly is. "Nine Scenes from the Tale of Genji" gives us insight into artistic techniques and a glimpse into the values of a sophisticated society centuries ago. Editor: A fitting reflection on material culture meeting symbolic depth. This artwork opens up ways to perceive its multilayered history, indeed!