Scene from a Drama 1739 - 1759

"Scene from a Drama" is a woodblock print by Torii Kiyonobu I, a prominent figure in the development of the ukiyo-e genre. Created between 1739 and 1759, it depicts a scene of a theatrical performance, possibly from a kabuki play. The print features three figures against a backdrop of a mountainous landscape, with a waterfall in the foreground. The use of bold lines and vibrant colors, characteristic of Kiyonobu's style, captures the dynamism of the scene, while the intricate details and the subtle interplay of light and shadow add depth and richness to the composition. This print, housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, offers a glimpse into the world of Japanese theatre and the artistic mastery of one of its most celebrated practitioners.