Act II c. 1843 - 1846

"Act II" is a woodblock print by Utagawa Hiroshige, a renowned Japanese artist who specialized in landscapes and cityscapes. This print, created between 1843 and 1846, depicts a scene from a Japanese play, showcasing traditional costume and theatrical staging. The composition is a typical example of the *ukiyo-e* style, featuring a dynamic use of color and line to create a sense of depth and movement. The viewer's eye is drawn to the central figures, emphasizing the emotional intensity of the scene. The work is currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art and is a captivating example of Hiroshige's talent for portraying both the beauty and the drama of everyday life in Edo-period Japan.