Manzai Performers c. 1816

This handscroll by Katsushika Hokusai, known for his woodblock prints, depicts two "manzai" performers, a comedic duo popular in Edo-period Japan. The drawing, dating from around 1816, features the performers in elaborate costumes, one holding a fan and the other a drum. This piece showcases Hokusai's unique ability to capture the dynamic energy and humor of everyday life, making it a captivating example of his work beyond the famous "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji." The scroll, currently housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is a testament to Hokusai's artistic versatility, capturing the essence of a traditional Japanese art form with masterful linework and subtle color.