CRANE AND IRISES 

Curator: This is Utagawa Hiroshige's "Crane and Irises," a Japanese woodblock print housed here at Harvard Art Museums. It measures about 37 by 17 centimeters. Editor: It strikes me as meditative, almost like a fleeting memory. The contrasting light and dark areas create a tranquil, yet somewhat melancholy mood. Curator: Cranes in Japanese art are potent symbols. They represent longevity, happiness, and good fortune, often linked to the divine. The iris, too, carries significance, symbolizing protection. Editor: Woodblock printing itself is a laborious process, layering color and detail. I wonder about the artisanal skills and the cultural context surrounding its production. Curator: The crane's posture, head bowed, could also represent humility or introspection, perhaps pointing to a deeper spiritual meaning embedded in the work. Editor: Seeing the final product divorced from its making, it's easy to forget the hands that crafted it. Appreciating the labor is key to truly understanding its value. Curator: Exactly. These symbols and the mode of production create a unique cultural artifact. Editor: Yes, understanding the art historical context and materiality gives it a richer meaning.