Wrestler Takaneyama Masaemon from Higo Province by Utagawa Kunisada

Wrestler Takaneyama Masaemon from Higo Province 1843

print, ink, color-on-paper

quirky illustration

childish illustration

cartoon like

cartoon based

print

caricature

japan

cartoon sketch

personal sketchbook

ink

color-on-paper

watercolour illustration

cartoon style

cartoon carciture

This ukiyo-e woodblock print, created by Utagawa Kunisada in 1843, depicts the sumo wrestler Takaneyama Masaemon from Higo Province. Kunisada, a prolific artist known for his dynamic and colorful prints, showcases the wrestler's imposing physique and strength. The wrestler's muscular build is highlighted by his bare torso, and the detailed depiction of his face conveys a sense of intensity and determination. The print's composition, with the wrestler standing on a straw mat, emphasizes the traditional setting of sumo wrestling, while the bold use of color adds vibrancy to the image. This artwork provides a glimpse into the popular culture of Edo-era Japan, capturing the excitement and spectacle surrounding sumo wrestling.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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This three-sheet set of prints represents the dohyō-ir, or ring-entering ceremony, at the beginning of a tournament day. Takaneyama appears on the left as the tachi-mochi, or sword carrier, one of the two attendants of the wrestler who performs the ceremony. On the right sits Kurokumo, who functions as the “dew sweeper” (tsuyuharai), the attendant who in ancient times would clear the path for the wrestlers. The ceremony itself is performed by a yokozuna, a high-ranking wrestler, in this case Shiranui, in the center. The yokozuna always performs the same moves in the center of the ring, including raising his right foot up high followed by his left.