Woman in Red (Kōi no onna) c. 20th century

Curator: Isn't she lovely? This is "Woman in Red," or "Kōi no onna," by Takehisa Yumeji. Editor: There's a delicate sadness, isn't there? The red is so vibrant, but her face holds a kind of quiet longing. Curator: Yumeji captured a poignant beauty that was very modern for its time. You see it in her downcast gaze, a departure from the traditional geisha portraits. Editor: The composition is brilliant. The red of her kimono dominates, but the gentle curves and soft colors create a harmonious balance. It's almost like a stylized Japanese print but with a touch of melancholy. Curator: Exactly! It's that contrast that makes it so captivating. The "Woman in Red" now resides at the Harvard Art Museums, waiting for all to gaze upon her beauty. Editor: It's certainly left me pondering beauty, sadness, and the dance between them.