Actor Ichikawa DanjÅ«rō 8th as Warrior with Riding Crop c. 1834

Editor: Here we have Utagawa Kunisada’s woodblock print of the actor Ichikawa Danjuro VIII as a warrior. The bright blue background really makes the figure pop. What can you tell me about its cultural context? Curator: Well, Kabuki theatre was hugely popular, especially with the merchant class who were eager for entertainment. Prints like these served as promotional materials and collectibles, celebrating famous actors and roles. Editor: So, it’s like a celebrity endorsement? Curator: In a way, yes! These prints democratized art, making it accessible beyond the elite. The actor's pose, the vibrant colours – they all contributed to constructing a powerful, idealized image for public consumption. It blurs the line between art and propaganda. Editor: I never thought about art as propaganda. Curator: Art is never neutral. Editor: That gives me a lot to think about. Thank you!