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

"Roppo" is a woodblock print by Tsukioka Kôgyo from his "Pictures of No Performances (Nogaku Zue)" series, depicting a scene from a Noh play. The print features four figures in traditional Japanese attire against a backdrop of a mountainous landscape and a large tree. The scene captures the dramatic tension of the Noh play, with the figures' expressions and poses suggesting a sense of mystery and foreboding. Created in 1898, "Roppo" is a captivating example of Kôgyo's mastery of woodblock printing and his ability to convey the essence of traditional Japanese theater. This print is currently on display at The Art Institute of Chicago.