Standing Lord in Blue Over-Kimono c. 1825 - 1830

This woodblock print depicts a standing lord adorned in a blue over-kimono. The sword is the central element, clutched with both hands as the figure stares down with tragic intent. The sword, a symbol of power and authority, here becomes an instrument of internal conflict and potential self-destruction. The motif echoes through history, from ancient Roman suicides to the tragic figures in Shakespeare. Across time, the act of turning a weapon upon oneself carries a profound weight. Consider the emotional undercurrent: the psychological burden of honor and duty. The image taps into a collective memory of sacrifice, engaging us on a deep, subconscious level. The tension between outward appearance and inner turmoil speaks volumes about the human condition. Like a recurring dream, this symbol resurfaces and evolves. It embodies not only despair but also a complex interplay of cultural values, personal agency, and the timeless struggle against fate.