The Actor Ichikawa Yaozo III with a geisha, from an untitled series of prints showing Actors in private life c. 1783 - 1784

This woodblock print by Torii Kiyonaga, created between 1783 and 1784, depicts the famous actor Ichikawa Yaozo III with a geisha. Kiyonaga was a master of the *bijin-ga* style, which focuses on beautiful women. The print captures the essence of the Edo period (1603-1868) through its depiction of the actor and the geisha in their elegant attire. The work showcases Kiyonaga's skill in portraying the delicate details of clothing, facial expressions, and the intimate setting. The print exemplifies the popularity of theater and the arts among the Japanese populace, making it a quintessential piece of *ukiyo-e*, the art of the "floating world." Now housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, this print is a testament to Kiyonaga's mastery of the *ukiyo-e* style and provides a glimpse into the life and culture of 18th-century Japan.