Inabise, from the series Sanchoden 

Curator: This is Keisai Eisen's "Inabise," part of the "Sanchoden" series, held here at the Harvard Art Museums. The print is on paper and although undated, we know Eisen lived from 1790 to 1848. Editor: The subdued palette evokes a feeling of quiet melancholy, doesn't it? The figures seem lost in thought, almost ethereal. Curator: Indeed. Ukiyo-e prints like this one were deeply connected to the socio-cultural fabric of their time. The figures are almost certainly courtesans, reflecting the pleasure districts of Edo-period Japan. Editor: The delicate brushstrokes used to depict their garments, particularly the intricate patterns, speak to a culture of high artistry. The symbols may carry multiple layers of meaning. Curator: Absolutely. Flowers on kimonos often denoted wealth and social standing. The pastoral background juxtaposed with their elaborate dress hints at the complex relationship between nature and the urban world. Editor: It's incredible how a simple scene can tell such a rich story about societal norms and values. Curator: It really makes you consider the artist’s role in interpreting the world around him.