Chinese Princess Chu Lianxiang (So Renkō) with Butterflies, spring kyōka surimono for the Manji Group led by Shinratei Manzō 2nd) c. 1825 - 1829

Curator: This delicate print, found at the Harvard Art Museums, is a spring kyōka surimono by Utagawa Kunisada, who died in 1865. It depicts a figure known as Chinese Princess Chu Lianxiang with Butterflies. Editor: There's a distinct melancholic quality in the portrait. Her lowered gaze and the muted tones create a sense of longing, don't you think? Curator: Definitely. It's also important to remember that these prints were often commissioned by poetry groups. The image and text were intertwined, reflecting social networks and cultural aspirations. Editor: The details in her garments, the layering and patterns, really showcase the labor-intensive process of traditional woodblock printing. Notice the precision of the lines defining the fabric. Curator: And her elaborate hairstyle, adorned with butterflies, hints at theatrical interpretations, reflecting the artist's ties to the Kabuki world and the performance culture of the time. Editor: Seeing the careful craftsmanship makes me think about how this type of print served not just as art, but as a commodity circulating within a specific social sphere. Curator: Precisely. It's a fascinating glimpse into the artistic practices and social dynamics of Edo-period Japan. Editor: A tangible reminder of both artistry and exchange.