Brady: I've been enjoying just reading this thread. Even better than your Hi lesson a few months back.
But have to respond to your query about the GC Showa. I did not care much for her at first... fine koi, but a GC at that level of competition? Then, as you study her, she starts becoming more interesting due to the relationships of Sumi bands and the motoguro. Except for the photos shot with the perfect filters and lighting, the Shiro is not as clean as one would like. The Hi does not have the uniformity of GC level Kohaku. So, why does she impress so much? The even quality of the Sumi gives her great presence. The Hi is part of the background canvas, like landscaping behind a central figure. It does not compete with the Sumi. The Hi lets the Sumi dominate. Combined with her size, I can imagine that she would have a dominating presence in the flesh, although a little more volume could improve her to my eye. ..... A good example of imperfect parts nicely packaged. And, a very strong impression that is Showa.