Morita Kanya as Genta Kagesuse 1928

This woodblock print by Natori Shunsen depicts the actor Morita Kanya as Genta Kagesue, a figure from Japanese theatre. The composition is dominated by the actor's face, framed by elaborate floral headwear and theatrical makeup, creating a striking focal point. The artist contrasts the flat planes of colour in the costume with the subtle gradations in the actor's face, drawing our eye to the surface texture of the print. The contrast between the orange costume with white flowers, against the background draws our focus to the performance. Shunsen captures not just a likeness, but a carefully constructed image, reflecting on the performative aspects of identity and representation. This theatricality underscores the understanding of identity as fluid and constructed, rather than fixed. It encourages us to consider the ways in which we 'perform' our own identities.