Onoe Kikugorō V in the Role of the Witch of Adachigahara 1890

Editor: Here we have Tsukioka Yoshitoshi's woodblock print from 1890, depicting Onoe Kikugorō V as the Witch of Adachigahara. The sharp contrast between the pale figure and the deep black background is really striking, giving it an almost theatrical feel. What’s your take on this dramatic scene? Curator: The print engages directly with representational strategies and semiotic relationships. Observe how Yoshitoshi orchestrates a complex interplay of light and shadow, not to imitate reality, but to construct a visual drama. The almost monochromatic rendering of the figure focuses our attention on the sinuous lines defining musculature and expression, signifying raw power and malevolence. Editor: I see what you mean about the lines creating a sense of power. And the black background really pushes the figure forward. Curator: Precisely. Notice, too, the carefully positioned elements – the calligraphy, the gourd vines – each acting as a visual anchor within the overall composition. They don’t merely decorate the space, they contribute to the overall reading of the image, enriching its symbolic weight. What do you make of the textural differences achieved with woodblock printing? Editor: Now that you mention it, the varying pressure and ink saturation definitely add another layer, almost like you can feel the texture of the skin. It adds to the realism in an unexpected way. Curator: Indeed. The artistry here lies not in perfect imitation, but in the manipulation of form and texture to evoke an emotional and intellectual response from the viewer. The inherent flatness of the woodblock contrasts vividly with our perception of depth through the dramatic use of chiaroscuro, complicating any straightforward interpretation. Editor: That's fascinating. I never thought about the flatness contributing to the drama. Thanks for pointing out those formal qualities! Curator: My pleasure. By examining these components, we gain insight into the mechanics of visual language and their effect on us.