Woman Standing 1615 - 1868

This woodblock print presents a standing woman, adorned with irises and cranes, evocative symbols of beauty and longevity in Japanese art. The iris, or "ayame," with its sword-like leaves, represented protection, while the crane, a sacred bird, embodies a long and prosperous life. The woman's robe is marked with a circular crest, a "mon," signifying family lineage and identity, a tradition akin to European heraldry. In other contexts, the crane appears in Zen Buddhist art, symbolizing enlightenment, its white feathers a metaphor for purity. Similarly, the iris, often depicted in Japanese screen paintings, mirrors the fleeting beauty of the natural world. These symbols are not static; their meanings shift and adapt, echoing collective hopes and fears. The image resonates with a profound yearning for continuity and connection. The cyclical progression of these symbols reminds us of the power of art to transcend time, echoing through history, and resurfacing with renewed relevance.