Act 2 c. 1810s

Kitagawa Utamaro created this woodblock print, Act 2, in Japan during the Edo period. It portrays a scene with two figures, likely part of a larger narrative. Utamaro was a leading printmaker of his time, known for his depictions of women, actors, and scenes from urban life. The act of presenting tea might seem simple, but in the rigidly hierarchical society of Edo Japan, the gestures, clothing, and setting of such an event carried significant meaning. Were these figures members of the aristocratic class, or perhaps courtesans, performers, or everyday people? Utamaro’s placement of the figures within a play is telling, and could be a vehicle for social commentary. Understanding the social context is key to interpreting this print. To truly understand the lives represented in this artwork, we might consult historical texts, theatrical records, and costume studies. In so doing, we can begin to understand the social codes and cultural values embedded in this beautiful image.