SASAKI TAKATSUNA AND KAJIWARA KAGESUYE AT THE UJI RIVER c. 19th century

Curator: Utagawa Hiroshige’s print, "Sasaki Takatsuna and Kajiwara Kagesuye at the Uji River," depicts a legendary episode of rivalry and courage. Editor: It’s wild! The icy blues and greens give the scene a frigid, almost desolate feel. I imagine the cold seeping into their bones. Curator: Absolutely, and that's crucial, because it’s not just about bravery; the print highlights the social pressures and performance of masculinity within feudal Japan. Each warrior's actions reflect their clan's honor. Editor: The one on horseback seems to be showing off, doesn't he? Like, "Look at me, I can totally cross this freezing river on my horse!" Curator: Perhaps, but consider this performance also functions as a challenge to established hierarchies; it allows for upward mobility. Editor: True. All this makes you wonder how much of this is genuine courage, and how much is just…theater. Curator: Exactly. It's a complicated interplay. Editor: I’ll remember this image when I'm questioning my own motivations. Curator: A perfect encapsulation of art meeting life.