Artwork
Actor Yamashita Yaozo
Actor Yamashita Yaozo is a print by the Baroque artist Katsukawa Shunshō. It dates from 1759 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1985.352
- Credit line
- The Kelvin Smith Collection, given by Mrs. Kelvin Smith
About this work
Overview
Actor Yamashita Yaozo is a print by Katsukawa Shunshō, created in 1759. It is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts Yamashita Yaozo, a Japanese actor, in traditional attire. His serious expression, with a hint of sadness, is the focal point. The simple, muted background allows the viewer to focus on the actor's portrayal.
Technique & Style
The actor is shown wearing a kimono with a floral pattern and a black obi. His hair is styled in a traditional Japanese manner. The print's style is characteristic of ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art.
Context
This work is an example of ukiyo-e, a style distinct from the Baroque movement, which is a separate art historical phenomenon.
Artist & collection
Artist
Katsukawa Shunshō spent his life in Edo (now Tokyo), where the city’s teahouses and theaters buzzed with energy.
