Who painted Nagauta Shamisen?

Nagauta Shamisen was painted by Toppan Printing in 1981.

Where can I see Nagauta Shamisen?

Nagauta Shamisen is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

Nagauta Shamisen

Toppan Printing , 1981

Nagauta Shamisen is a poster by Toppan Printing. It dates from 1981 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

A poster created in 1981 as part of a series by twelve prominent Japanese graphic designers, curated by art and design critic Masaru Katsumi.

Subject & Meaning

The poster represents 'Nagauta Shamisen', referring to the traditional musical accompaniment to Kabuki theatre, characterized by the use of a three-stringed Japanese lute.

Context

The poster series commemorated a cultural exchange involving the Classical Performing Arts Friendship Mission of Japan, which performed across the United States, including at the University of California, Los Angeles, as part of the UCLA Asian Performing Arts Institute.