Six Lions c. 19th century

Curator: This is "Six Lions," a drawing made with ink on paper. We believe it dates from the 19th century, and was created by the renowned Japanese artist, Katsushika Hokusai. Editor: Six lions, or should I say, six versions of lion-ness floating on the paper! I am drawn to the stark ink; each creature rendered with such varied strokes... playful, yet undeniably fierce. Curator: Yes, Hokusai's mastery of ink is very much on display. Consider how the varying densities of the ink, along with paper choice, contribute to both texture and the overall visual rhythm of the composition. The materiality echoes the economical context of Ukiyo-e prints—mass production but, by a master. Editor: Absolutely, there’s a palpable sense of dynamism; almost a flurry of fur and claws dancing before me. The lion at the bottom seems ready to spring, while others above melt back into form, suspended between states of solid matter and pure creative essence. There's a sense of movement, but it seems dream-like, too. Curator: This piece probably functioned as a preparatory drawing. The lions, or perhaps Shishi as they're known in Japan, would likely later be deployed across multiple prints and artworks in varying commercial and artisanal contexts. Note how his production model cleverly utilized multiple art styles to satisfy demand in the growing consumer markets of the Edo period. Editor: Interesting thought. In Japanese culture, the lion, or Shishi, acts as a protector from evil spirits, yes? And here, there are many, like some wild assembly or committee, deciding how best to safeguard from some unseen danger. Maybe Hokusai’s was trying to push for a print as vibrant and active in mind, as in action? Curator: Perhaps... Considering the era's sociopolitical volatility with rise in print circulation in urban zones of Japan. This reflects, through symbolism and form, on the tensions within and around established social and artisanal structures. Editor: You know, it’s curious, even if seen as sketches for Ukiyo-e prints for a broader audience, they remain wonderfully evocative of wild spirit and free energy! Makes one imagine Hokusai laughing aloud during production; as his vision comes playfully alive upon these pages. Curator: Ultimately this work lets us consider the dynamic, and sometimes fraught, interaction between commodification, artistry and belief at a particular historical juncture. Editor: Right! It’s like peeking through the portal into Hokusai's creative frenzy—lion thoughts, sketches, everything flowing on and around paper... inspiring beyond limits today!