Girl and Lover in Snow 1800 - 1833

This woodblock print, made around 1800 by Koikawa Harumasa, depicts a woman and her lover braving a snowstorm. The shared umbrella, or "kasa," serves as more than just protection; it is a symbol of shelter, unity, and shared fate. The image reminds me of similar protective coverings found throughout art history. Think of the Virgin's cloak, sheltering supplicants. This motif stretches back to antiquity, appearing in many cultures. Here, the umbrella’s arc mirrors the protective embrace, yet it is tinged with the transient nature of romance. Snow, often symbolizing purity, ironically blankets a clandestine meeting. This creates a tension – the external purity of the snow against the internal passions of the couple. The "kasa," therefore, embodies a hope for enduring shelter amidst life’s storms.