Rules for the Department of Young Ladies (Shōgaku Joreishiki zukai) c. late 19th century

Editor: This woodblock print, "Rules for the Department of Young Ladies," is by Adachi Ginkō. It shows a tea ceremony, but something feels a little staged to me... very formal. What do you think is going on in this image? Curator: Staged, yes, perhaps intentionally so! I see it as a fascinating glimpse into Meiji-era Japan, a society grappling with Westernization while clinging to tradition. Notice the calligraphy—a set of rules, perhaps? The tea ceremony becomes a symbol of refinement, a performance of cultural identity. I wonder if this print served as both instruction and aspiration? Editor: Instruction, interesting! I was so focused on the people, I didn't consider the text as part of the subject! Curator: Exactly! It's like a well-choreographed dance, isn't it? A beautiful, slightly stiff, dance between tradition and modernity. Editor: So much to consider! Thanks.