An Impossible Feat by Imaginary Men, no. 8 from a series of 12 prints c. 1708

Editor: So, this is "An Impossible Feat by Imaginary Men, no. 8" from a series of 12 prints, dating back to around 1708, by Okumura Masanobu. It’s at the Art Institute of Chicago. It’s a woodcut in ink on paper and there’s just so much going on in the composition that feels absurd. What do you see when you look at this, that maybe I’m missing? Curator: Absurd is the perfect word, isn't it? Like a dream logic sprung to life! I see echoes of theatricality—figures gesturing wildly as if on a stage. It feels a bit like peeking into a fantastical, satirical drama, doesn’t it? Look at the man on the horse playing an instrument. Editor: Absolutely. It's like everyone is performing but no one seems to know the script. Curator: Exactly! And notice how Masanobu plays with perspective, flattening space and exaggerating certain elements. It draws attention to specific details in the picture, adding layers of humor and visual tension, and makes me wonder what 'impossible feat' they are trying to accomplish. Are we sure it's one thing, or is it several feats? It gives it a real narrative push. What's *your* take? Editor: I think it's lots of little feats...Like, who decided they could ride an oversized gourd, for instance? And how does that giant gourd even stay afloat? I can’t decide whether to laugh or scratch my head! Curator: Why not both? That's the magic of ukiyo-e! I mean, imagine the artisans meticulously carving each line, capturing that playful energy in wood. Each stroke telling a story! Editor: That’s amazing, thinking about the amount of work involved. Curator: Right? Masanobu invites us to embrace the playful dance between reality and imagination, it tickles your brain and makes you laugh at the same time! What a joy. Editor: Well, now I can’t look at this the same way! So much richer, thank you.