The actor Otani Oniji in the role of Omoni Hikoshichi 1720 - 1740

Torii Kiyomasu I made this woodblock print depicting the actor Otani Oniji in the role of Omoni Hikoshichi. Kabuki theatre was a popular form of entertainment in Japan's Edo period, offering commentary on contemporary society through exaggerated movement and elaborate costumes. Prints like this one served as publicity for the plays and actors. The exaggerated features and dynamic pose seen here, were characteristic of the Torii school of printmaking, which specialized in images of Kabuki actors. Social hierarchies were highly regulated during the Edo period, and Kabuki offered a space for subversion and social commentary. In this print, we can see how the artist uses bold lines and vibrant colors to capture the energy and drama of the stage. Researching the specific play and the historical context of its performance can reveal how Kabuki challenged and reflected the social norms of its time.