Erotic Scene c. 1780 - 1790

Editor: So, this is Katsukawa Shunchō’s *Erotic Scene*, a woodblock print on paper. The composition feels rather intimate, and I'm curious about the cultural context surrounding depictions of such scenes. What can you tell me about its role in society at the time? Curator: Ukiyo-e prints, even those depicting intimate encounters, were widely circulated. These images reflect not just pleasure, but social dynamics and cultural ideals, challenging any simplistic view of morality. How does viewing this work in a museum setting today change your perception of it? Editor: I guess it encourages me to think about how museums shape our understanding of art. It’s no longer just about the erotic, but also about the social and historical context that surrounds it. Curator: Precisely! Museums play a crucial role in framing these works, prompting us to consider the politics of representation and the public role of art.