Ôkawa Hashizô I als timmerman Rokusa 1848

Utagawa Sadamasu II created this woodblock print, Ôkawa Hashizô I als timmerman Rokusa, showcasing his understanding of form and composition. The print strikes you with its use of contrasting colors and patterns, where the stark black of the figure's clothing is set against the detailed red and white background. Notice how the artist uses line and shape to define the figure, but does not delve into realism. The exaggerated facial features and stylized hands draw attention to the symbolic representation of the character rather than a lifelike portrait. This emphasis on stylization over realism reflects the influence of formalism, where the intrinsic qualities of an artwork – such as line, color, and composition – take precedence over its representational accuracy. The careful arrangement of these elements suggests a deeper structure and meaning within the artwork. The print invites us to consider how these structural elements communicate ideas about identity, performance, and representation. The meaning of the artwork continues to evolve and transform based on our interpretations.