Poet Ariwara no Narihira (825-880) from page 2B of the printed book of "Thirty-Six Immortal Poets" (SanjÅ«rokkasen), Kōetsu edition c. 1610

Editor: This is Hon'ami Kōetsu's "Poet Ariwara no Narihira," a woodblock print from the Momoyama period, depicting one of the Thirty-Six Immortal Poets. The figure has such a somber air about him, despite his patterned clothing. What's your take on its cultural significance? Curator: Well, it's fascinating to consider how the representation of poets like Narihira evolved. The "Thirty-Six Immortal Poets" became a powerful cultural trope, shaping perceptions of artistry. How does this Kōetsu edition, printed for a wider audience, differ from earlier, more exclusive depictions? Editor: It seems much more accessible, wouldn't you say? Curator: Exactly. The printing process democratizes the image, shifting the role of art from courtly appreciation to broader cultural dissemination. Editor: So, we’re not just looking at a portrait, but at the popularization of poetic ideals. Curator: Precisely. It speaks volumes about how artistic reputation gets manufactured and consumed by society.