Momotaro Holding a Rice Cake 

Editor: Here we have Katsukawa Shuntei's "Momotaro Holding a Rice Cake," a lovely woodblock print. The figure seems almost theatrical. What can you tell me about the cultural context of this work? Curator: This print participates in a tradition of celebrating folk heroes and popular narratives. Consider how the story of Momotaro, the peach boy, functions as a symbol of strength and good fortune within Japanese society. How might this imagery have resonated with the public? Editor: It's like a superhero origin story, but tied to cultural values. I hadn't thought about it that way. Thanks! Curator: Exactly. Art often reflects and reinforces societal ideals and historical events. We can also see how the theater plays a significant role in the visual culture.