Prawn (Kuruma ebi), Horse Mackerel (Aji), and Smartweed (Tade) from the series A Shoal of Fishes (Uozukushi) c. late 19th century

Editor: This is Utagawa Hiroshige’s "Prawn, Horse Mackerel, and Smartweed" from his series "A Shoal of Fishes." It's a woodblock print, and the composition feels really dynamic. What can you tell me about this work? Curator: Hiroshige’s series presents an interesting commentary on the Edo period's relationship with food and class. Notice how the fish are not just observed, but presented as commodities. How might this reflect the social hierarchy of the time, where access to certain foods indicated status? Editor: So, it's not just a pretty picture of fish? Curator: Exactly. Consider the meticulous detail. This wasn't merely documentation; it was a carefully constructed representation of resources, power, and the cultural significance of the natural world. What does it tell us about the ecological awareness, or lack thereof, during that era? Editor: I never thought about it that way. It's like a glimpse into their society through what they chose to depict. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. Art opens these avenues for understanding the intricate tapestry of history and culture.