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

Tsukioka Kôgyo created "Sakaga" as part of his series "Pictures of No Performances (Nogaku Zue)" during a period of significant social and cultural change in Japan. This print captures a scene from a Noh play, a traditional Japanese performance art that combines elements of dance, drama, music, and poetry. Noh plays often explore themes of history and mythology. Here, the artist uses the Sakaga character to explore themes of power, tradition, and identity. The character is presented with a mask and elaborate costume which allows for a reflection on the nature of performance. The print serves as a window into a rich cultural tradition, inviting us to consider the ways in which performance shapes our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.