Famous Scenes of Edo in the Four Seasons: Sumida River in Snow c. 1843 - 1847

Curator: Hiroshige's "Famous Scenes of Edo in the Four Seasons: Sumida River in Snow" uses delicate lines to depict a serene winter scene. The woman in blue, along with the snow laden branches, and calm water is giving me such a peaceful impression! Editor: Absolutely! Let’s consider the historical context. Edo-period woodblock prints like this were produced for a broad audience; how does the commodification of landscape and leisure intersect with social class and gender here? Curator: It’s interesting to think about the printmaking process itself. The carving of the woodblocks, the application of ink and color, and the labor involved in producing multiples made it accessible. Editor: Indeed! The image participates in the construction of idealized femininity in a patriarchal society, framing the woman's role within certain social expectations. Curator: Her large umbrella, her clothing and stance also create such a strong horizontal composition and adds balance to the scene. Editor: The choice of subject, the Sumida River, also speaks to urbanization and the changing relationship between people and their environment. Curator: Thinking about the materials and the printing process offers such insight into how the artist was able to create such beautiful work for the masses. Editor: It’s important to remember that images like these both reflected and shaped the cultural landscape of their time.