Kiyotsune, from the series "Pictures of No Performances (Nogaku Zue)" 1898

"Kiyotsuna," a woodblock print by Tsukioka Kôgyo, captures the elegance of a Noh actor in elaborate costume. This 1898 piece, part of the series "Pictures of No Performances (Nogaku Zue)," depicts the character Kiyotsune, a famous warrior from the Heian period, in his theatrical attire. The detailed rendering of the intricate fabrics and the dynamic pose of the figure highlight the artistry of the Noh theater. This piece is a testament to the enduring legacy of traditional Japanese performing arts and the aesthetic sensibilities of the artist. This print, now part of the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, is a vibrant example of Japanese woodblock printmaking.