Young Actor in Male Role 1800 - 1868

This scroll, ‘Young Actor in Male Role’, was made by Kaigetsudō sometime in the 18th century, using ink and color on paper. While the flat planes of color may look simple, the piece involved a complex layering of mineral pigments and inks. This approach builds on a long history of painting in Japan, but here it’s put to the service of capturing a fleeting moment in the demimonde of theater. The artist's expert touch is visible in the careful rendering of the actor's garments. The floral patterns on the kimono, for example, are depicted with precision and delicacy. These patterns are more than mere decoration; they provide insight into the actor’s character and the role he is portraying. Ultimately, it is the tension between the graphic flatness of the image and the subtle variations in tone and color that give this painting its lasting appeal. The artist's mastery of materials and techniques, combined with his insight into the world of the Kabuki theater, resulted in a powerful work of art.