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

Curator: This is "Rules for the Department of Young Ladies," a work by Adachi Ginkō created in the late 19th century. It presents two scenes in a single print. Editor: The composition feels very balanced, almost divided into two distinct registers, the indoor scene above and the outdoor one below. It's quite charming. Curator: Yes, and each vignette displays young women in different social settings and stages of etiquette training within upper-class Meiji society. Consider the implications of these domestic spaces. Editor: Note how the artist uses flattened perspective and bold color choices to create depth, or perhaps the illusion of it. The patterning, especially in the kimonos, is delightful. Curator: It’s interesting to think about these women navigating these complex roles—cultural expectations, the societal constraints of gender and class. Editor: A world carefully constructed through line and color. A snapshot into a curated life. Curator: It highlights these tensions beautifully. Editor: Indeed.