No. 21, from the series Magic Lantern Slides of That Romantic Purple Figure (Sono sugata yukari no utsushi-e) c. 1847 - 1855

Curator: Before us is Utagawa Kunisada’s woodblock print, No. 21, from the series Magic Lantern Slides of That Romantic Purple Figure, housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels like a stage set, or a scene caught between acts—a quiet moment before or after heightened drama. Curator: Observe how Kunisada uses the screen to create distinct planes within the composition, almost like a triptych. Editor: The prominent sword is intriguing. The sword almost reads like a phallus. Is Kunisada playing with gender and role expectations, challenging societal norms through symbolism? Curator: The flat, vibrant color fields are typical of ukiyo-e, but Kunisada’s manipulation of perspective, especially in the placement of objects, invites analysis. Editor: The patterns on their robes speak to a rich cultural narrative, each motif possibly alluding to status, family history, or even literary references. Curator: A close reading of the spatial relationships unlocks a deeper understanding. Editor: Ultimately, it is a visual poem, layered with meaning.