Ichikawa Yaozō II in the -Shibaraku- Role 1774

This print of Ichikawa Yaozō II was made by Katsukawa Shunsho, using woodblock printing techniques. The process begins with a drawing, which is then transferred to a block of wood, usually cherry. The areas around the lines are carved away, leaving a raised surface that will receive the ink. Japanese woodblock prints like this one required skilled artisans, from the artist who made the original design, to the block carvers and printers. Notice the flat planes of color, the expressive lines defining the actor's figure, and the stylized patterns on his robe, which draw our eyes to the surface. The material qualities of the woodblock, along with the labor-intensive process of carving and printing, add a layer of meaning. These prints were commercial objects, produced in multiples and sold to a wide audience, which speaks to the growing popularity of Kabuki theater during this period, and demonstrates the intersection of art, entertainment, and commerce in Japanese society. Appreciating the art, labor, and the context of the work gives us a fuller understanding of its cultural significance.