Foreigners Enjoying a Banquet 1862

This triptych woodblock print, made by Utagawa Yoshikazu in the 19th century, offers us a glimpse into a banquet enjoyed by foreigners in Japan. Observe the Western clothing, the interior decor, and the very act of communal dining, symbols of a cultural encounter. The presence of these foreigners, their attire and customs, resonate with earlier depictions of exotic figures in Renaissance and Baroque art. These symbols of foreignness can be traced back to the Renaissance, when increased trade and exploration led to a fascination with the 'other.' The act of feasting, a central motif here, has its roots in ancient rituals of hospitality and communion. It carries echoes of religious ceremonies and the primal act of sharing sustenance. The artist invites us to consider the psychological impact of encountering unfamiliar cultures, the allure and anxiety that accompany the meeting of worlds. These themes resonate through time.