Fukunokami (Kyogen), from the series "Pictures of No Performances (Nogaku Zue)" 1898

Editor: Here we have Tsukioka Kôgyo’s woodblock print, *Fukunokami (Kyogen), from the series "Pictures of No Performances (Nogaku Zue),"* created in 1898. What strikes me most is the contrast: a comical figure in mid-air juxtaposed with the bowing figures. It makes me wonder about the story. What do you see in this piece, beyond the obvious stage setting? Curator: Oh, it tickles the senses, doesn’t it? That’s Fukunokami, the god of good fortune from traditional Japanese theatre. Notice how he floats, almost dreamlike, in front of these grounded, reverent men. Kôgyo plays with this spiritual world bumping into the everyday one. It makes you think—where *does* luck come from, anyway? From the heavens? From humble supplication? Editor: So the artist is making a statement about social hierarchy maybe? Or luck versus hard work? Curator: Perhaps! Or perhaps simply reflecting on the human condition – our perpetual yearning for something more. The almost gaudy print work, do you think it adds to the sense of divine blessing, like a promise of gilded opportunities? The vibrant palette suggests abundance and prosperity. Editor: I see your point. The colour choices do bring that richness. I guess I was so focused on the implied narrative I missed that. It’s more open-ended than I initially thought. Curator: That's the magic, isn't it? Art inviting you to play, to interpret, to maybe even create your own lucky stars. It certainly has me wanting to catch a No performance now! Editor: Definitely! I'm leaving with a whole new perspective, and I might just buy a lottery ticket now. Thanks!