Gen Sanmi Yorimasa, from the series Twenty-Four Generals for the Katsushika Circle (Katsushika nijÅ«shishō) c. 1821

Editor: So, this is Yashima Gakutei's "Gen Sanmi Yorimasa," from the series Twenty-Four Generals for the Katsushika Circle. I’m struck by the flatness and the almost decorative quality of the figures. What formal elements stand out to you? Curator: The composition is interesting. Note the interplay between the geometric fan and the organic shapes of the clothing. Consider how the artist utilizes line to define form and create a sense of depth, or rather, a deliberate lack thereof, flattening the picture plane. Editor: I see what you mean about the lines! It's like the lines define shapes more than creating depth. It makes you focus on the relationship between the figures, doesn’t it? Curator: Precisely. It invites us to deconstruct the visual vocabulary and explore the relationships between line, shape, and form. Editor: This has given me a whole new way of looking at ukiyo-e prints. Thanks!