Actor Onoe Matsusuke as Kanshojō c. 1791

Editor: This woodblock print, "Actor Onoe Matsusuke as Kanshojo" by Katsukawa Shunko, shows a figure in dramatic pose, with bold lines suggesting rain. The actor's intense expression really grabs me. What's your take on this piece? Curator: It's fascinating to consider how Kabuki prints like this functioned within Edo society. They were essentially celebrity posters, shaping public perceptions of actors and theatrical narratives. How do you think this image played into the socio-political context of its time? Editor: So, it's more than just a portrait; it's a carefully constructed image meant to influence the audience's view of the actor and the play? Curator: Precisely! The artist and publisher were active participants in image-making, crafting a powerful public persona. It's a great example of art functioning as a crucial form of visual communication. Editor: That adds a whole new layer to my understanding; seeing the print as part of a larger cultural conversation is really insightful.