The Actor Shinomiya Heihachi c. 1700

"The Actor Shinomiya Heihachi" is a woodblock print from c. 1700 by Torii Kiyonobu I, a renowned artist of the Edo period. The print depicts the kabuki actor Shinomiya Heihachi in a dramatic pose, holding two swords. This print is an excellent example of the ukiyo-e genre, which translates to "pictures of the floating world," and focuses on subjects from everyday life. It captures the vibrant and dynamic nature of kabuki theater and its popularity among the Japanese people. The bold lines and vivid colors of the print bring the actor to life, and the intricate details of the costume and setting contribute to the overall realism. This print is currently on display at the Art Institute of Chicago.