The Plum Blossom that Flew on Lightning from Chikushino 1857

Editor: Here we have "The Plum Blossom that Flew on Lightning from Chikushino," a vibrant print made by Utagawa Yoshiharu in 1857. The scene feels almost theatrical, with striking diagonals of red cutting through the picture plane. What do you see happening in this image? Curator: Well, it’s more than just theatrical; it’s intrinsically tied to the Kabuki theater and its audiences. These prints, especially ukiyo-e like this one, weren't simply art objects, but were mass-produced representations of popular culture. Who do you think the characters in this artwork are portraying? Editor: Based on the costume, I’d guess the figure on the bottom is an actor portraying a powerful character and above is Raiden, the god of thunder? Curator: Precisely. So, consider how prints like these circulated within Edo society. They weren't high art, but affordable entertainment, much like magazines today. And think about what images were chosen - often reflections of contemporary taste and theater, serving a specific cultural and economic function. Do you notice any other element suggesting his power? Editor: Yes, now that you point that out. I’d have to say all the taiko drums swirling around Raiden’s body that he is holding. That is some lightning speed traveling if you ask me. Curator: Indeed. And look at how these prints helped construct narratives, spread information (or in this case, a spectacle) and influence trends amongst theatre goers and society. Now looking at this image, would you consider this simply landscape art? Editor: It would be so easy to just view it as only a ukiyo-e and just leave it there, but thinking more about the socio-cultural aspect really allows me to understand a snapshot in Japanese society. Thanks. Curator: Exactly. This print, its style, its subject, speaks volumes about the visual and performative culture of its time, so we have to dig a bit deeper to appreciate what it has to offer.