Actor Ichikawa Komazō AS HAMANARI Edo period,

Curator: Torii Kiyomitsu, active in the mid-18th century, created this woodblock print, now at the Harvard Art Museums, titled "Actor Ichikawa Komazō as Hamanari." Editor: It's striking how the patterned robes and stark white net contrast with the muted background, creating a sense of theatricality, almost suspended animation. Curator: Indeed. Kiyomitsu was known for his depictions of Kabuki actors, often emphasizing their roles and specific moments within plays through stylized poses and symbolic props. Editor: The fishing rod, the patterned robes—they speak to Hamanari's character within the play, no doubt revealing aspects of his social status and perhaps even hidden intentions. Curator: The flatness of the image and bold lines are hallmarks of the Torii school, focusing on conveying the essence of the actor's performance rather than striving for realistic representation. Editor: It's a powerful reminder of how art can capture and reflect the performative aspects of identity within a specific cultural context. Curator: Absolutely, a vibrant distillation of Kabuki's energy into a single, potent image. Editor: Yes, and an intriguing glimpse into the social and cultural significance of Kabuki during the Edo period.