Kichiza en Osugi in de sneeuw c. 1839

Gochôtei Sadamasu created this woodblock print, titled ‘Kichiza en Osugi in de sneeuw’, in Japan. Here, the artist captures a scene from Kabuki theatre, a popular form of entertainment in Japan during the Edo period. Kabuki emerged as a subversive form of performance, challenging the strict social norms of the time. Initially, it was even performed by women, before being banned by the shogunate on the grounds of indecency. Kabuki plays often featured elaborate costumes, stylized makeup, and exaggerated gestures, creating a visually striking and emotionally charged experience for audiences. Woodblock prints like this one served as a way to preserve and disseminate images of popular actors and scenes from these plays. In this print, we see two actors in costume, their faces painted with the distinctive makeup of Kabuki performers. The falling snow in the background adds to the dramatic atmosphere. The historian can look to playbills, costume designs, and audience reviews to shed light on the cultural significance of Kabuki theatre and its role in shaping social attitudes. The meaning of art is always contingent on its social and institutional context.