Clear Weather after Snow at the Sumida River Ferry (Sumidagawa watashiba yukibare no zu), from the series Famous Places in the Eastern Capital (Tōto meisho no uchi) c. 20th century

Editor: Here we have Hiroshige’s "Clear Weather after Snow at the Sumida River Ferry," from his series, "Famous Places in the Eastern Capital." It's quite striking with the snow clinging to the trees. What can you tell me about it? Curator: This woodblock print speaks volumes about the commodification of landscape. Consider the labor involved in its creation: the artist, the carvers, the printers, all contributing to a product intended for mass consumption. How does this repetitive process affect the artwork's aura, or does it even have one? Editor: That's fascinating; I never considered that aspect of printmaking. So, it's less about the artistic genius and more about the means of production? Curator: Precisely! The materials, the tools, the social structures that enabled its distribution – these are just as important as Hiroshige's vision. Did that change your perspective? Editor: Absolutely, it makes me think about the broader economic forces at play, not just the aesthetic appeal. Thank you!