1854
ink
From the collection of Metropolitan Museum of Art
This print shows a man in a blue robe with bold black sleeves. His face is painted white with strong black lines—big eyes, a sharp nose, and a serious expression. He holds a white fan in one hand and rests the other on his hip. The background is dark, with a few trees and a red sign with Japanese writing. The actor’s pose and costume suggest he’s playing a strong, maybe even tough character. The fan and robe look like traditional Japanese theater gear. If you like this style, check out Utagawa Kunisada.
