Actor Nakamura Nakazō as Ono Sadakurō, from the series Stories of the True Loyalty of the Faithful Samurai (SeichÅ« gishi den no uchi) c. 19th century

Curator: Looking at the print, "Actor Nakamura Nakazo as Ono Sadakuro" by Utagawa Kunisada, part of the "Stories of the True Loyalty of the Faithful Samurai" series, I am struck by the starkness of the figure against the dark blue ground. Editor: The actor’s intense gaze and downward glance convey a palpable sense of suppressed anger. It is a raw and powerful image. I am curious about the materials and their sources. Curator: This is a woodblock print, a process involving multiple blocks, each carved and inked separately. The labor involved in producing these prints for mass consumption is significant. Editor: Indeed, and we must remember the social context of Kabuki theater. The depiction of loyalty and revenge plays a role in reinforcing social norms. Curator: Yes, the series reflects the cultural and political currents of its time. It’s amazing to consider the sheer volume of prints like these circulating then, and the artistry behind each one. Editor: It highlights how art serves as a marker of social standing. The piece really makes one think about art as an object with purpose.