Court Lady Viewing the Moon/ from the series Go Kasen, with poems by Gamōtei Fudemochi, Seijōkoku(?) Kagehiro and Senbatei Teodori c. 1820s

Curator: Katsushika Hokusai, born in 1760, created this print, titled "Court Lady Viewing the Moon," part of the Go Kasen series. It's a shikishiban, about 21 by 19 centimeters, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: I'm immediately struck by the lady’s serene expression, juxtaposed with the elaborate patterns of her kimono. It's as if she's detached from the earthly opulence, lost in contemplation of the moon. Curator: The moon itself is a potent symbol in Japanese art and literature, representing transience, reflection, and feminine power. Hokusai was working within a visual culture where the moon was a constant, charged motif. Editor: And the court lady, adorned with such intricate designs and accompanied by poetry, becomes an embodiment of refined beauty, a vehicle for those deeper, cultural associations with the moon. Curator: Exactly. The print offers a glimpse into the artistic values and social structures of its time, showcasing the refined aesthetic associated with the elite classes. Editor: It's fascinating how the visual symbols and poetry work together to create a layered emotional experience, drawing on centuries of shared cultural understanding. Curator: Indeed, Hokusai provides us with a concise yet compelling reflection on art, culture and society. Editor: A small window into a rich tapestry of meaning!