Honma Suketada (Taiheiki), from the series Twenty-Four Japanese Paragons of Filial Piety for the Honchō Circle (Honchōren honchō nijÅ«shikō), with poem by Sashukutei Kitaru c. 1821 - 1822

Curator: Yashima Gakutei's woodblock print, "Honma Suketada," depicts a warrior from the series "Twenty-Four Japanese Paragons of Filial Piety." The print, now at Harvard, showcases the honor associated with loyalty. Editor: My first impression is how dynamic the composition is, despite the limited color palette. There is so much textural variation. Curator: The subject, Honma, is shown in full battle regalia, a spear in hand, posed before what seems to be a castle under siege. Editor: Right, and the linear perspective used to render the castle is somewhat flattened, giving it a symbolic rather than realistic presence. The poem at the top adds another layer. Curator: The print was part of a larger cultural movement emphasizing moral virtues. It's not just a portrait; it’s a statement on societal values. Editor: A powerful blend of visual storytelling and cultural encoding. It’s fascinating how Gakutei used such simple means to convey such complex ideas.