Actor Otowaya and Two Geisha at New Year's, with poem by Ryufutei Shirubei no Hanagaki c. 1815 - 1830

Curator: Right away, this print feels theatrical. Editor: Indeed, Utagawa Kunisada created this woodblock print, "Actor Otowaya and Two Geisha at New Year's," sometime during his career, which spanned from 1786 to 1865. The print features a poem by Ryufutei Shirubei no Hanagaki. Curator: The craftsmanship jumps out—the layering of the garments, the detail in the hair ornaments. It really highlights the artistry behind everyday objects and traditions. Editor: Beyond mere aesthetics, though, it is crucial to recognize that such prints often glossed over the harsh realities for women in the entertainment industry. These New Year's celebrations also provided a stage for power dynamics within the rigid social structure of the time. Curator: Absolutely. And considering the labor involved in producing these prints, from carving the blocks to the printing process, there's a hidden story of collective work and skill often overshadowed by the artist's name. Editor: Well put! It reminds us to look deeper, past the surface beauty. Curator: Exactly. It's about seeing the art and the system that made it possible.