Actor Onoe Matsusuke as a Priest(?) c. 1780s

Editor: This is a print of "Actor Onoe Matsusuke as a Priest(?)" by Katsukawa Shunkō, held at the Harvard Art Museums. The figure's gaze and the question mark in the title give me a sense of ambiguity. How might we interpret this character? Curator: The representation of actors was a powerful form of social commentary. Consider how this image might have been received – what expectations of priests or actors does it subvert or reinforce, and for what audience? Editor: It's interesting to think about how the print challenged or played with social roles. Curator: Indeed. By understanding the societal context, we can appreciate how art functions as a mirror and agent of change.