Futami Bay of Ise (Ise Futami-ga Ura no Kei) 

Editor: Keisai Eisen's "Futami Bay of Ise," from the early 19th century, depicts these jagged rocks emerging from the sea. It’s a serene yet slightly melancholic scene, with Japanese text floating above the rocks. What do you see in this image? Curator: I see a powerful connection to Shinto beliefs. The tied rope bridges two sacred rocks, Izanagi and Izanami, representing the union of male and female, creation and harmony. They become potent symbols of marriage and enduring love. Editor: So, the rocks aren't just rocks, they're a visual metaphor? Curator: Precisely. And the ropes, renewed annually, signify the renewal of vows, the continuation of life and tradition. What emotions does that evoke? Editor: A sense of reverence and the cyclical nature of time, I think. It's more than just a landscape; it's a cultural touchstone.