Untitled
1778
ink
From the collection of Metropolitan Museum of Art
1778
ink
From the collection of Metropolitan Museum of Art
A man in loose robes stands on a wooden stage, gripping a long sword. His face is painted with bold lines—dark eyes, a scowling mouth, and a wild beard. One hand clutches the sword’s hilt, while the other holds the blade close to his body. The background is mostly black, but the floor is a grid of light brown planks. Notice the way the artist used sharp, quick strokes to show fabric and muscle. The sword looks heavy, and the man’s stance is tense, like he’s ready to fight. Want to see more? Check out Katsukawa Shunkō.
