Untitled
1882
ink
From the collection of Metropolitan Museum of Art
1882
ink
From the collection of Metropolitan Museum of Art
This print shows two actors in bright, bold costumes. One holds a fan, his face painted with strong lines and a big black hat. The other leans on a curved staff, wearing a red sash and a patterned kimono. Pink flowers fill the dark background, and red banners with Japanese writing hang above them. The actors’ makeup and poses look dramatic, almost like masks. The flowers and banners add a festive but serious mood—like a stage set. Look up actor to see how theater traditions shaped this style.
