The Actor Ichikawa Ebizō (formerly Danjūrō V) as Kemushi Babā of Anō Village 1792

Editor: This is "The Actor Ichikawa Ebizo as Kemushi Baba of Ano Village" by Katsukawa Shun'ei, a woodblock print from 1792. I'm immediately struck by the almost grotesque caricature of the figure and the incongruously delicate cherry blossoms above. What can you tell me about the significance of this kind of imagery? Curator: Notice how the artist uses familiar imagery in a subversive way. While cherry blossoms symbolize transience and beauty, the actor, embodying Kemushi Baba, is anything but conventionally attractive. The figure itself! What do you observe about its construction and portrayal? Editor: The exaggerated features, like the prominent nose and hunched posture, and that intense gaze, definitely create a sense of unease or even humor. But, Kemushi Baba...is that a specific character or archetype? Curator: Indeed. Kemushi Baba, literally "Caterpillar Crone," represents a figure from popular folklore, often associated with dark magic and trickery. The actor Ichikawa Ebizo is *playing* with this image, both embracing and subverting the cultural memory associated with the character. Consider the fan; what might that suggest in this context? Editor: Perhaps it's a subtle indication of the performative aspect? Like he's *performing* ugliness, but still retaining some element of control or even coquettishness with the fan. Curator: Precisely! And remember, Ukiyo-e prints were popular entertainment, often featuring actors in iconic roles. By depicting Ebizo as Kemushi Baba, Shun'ei taps into a shared understanding of theatrical convention and cultural symbolism. He almost asks us: How do appearances reflect cultural expectations and internal anxieties? Editor: So, it's more than just a portrait; it's a commentary on performance, beauty, and perhaps even societal anxieties around aging or unconventional appearances. Curator: Exactly. Seeing how the grotesque intertwines with established motifs, such as the blossoms, makes this image especially captivating. Editor: I hadn't considered that! Now I realize the visual language is speaking volumes about Japanese theatre and folklore!