Tadanori, from the series "Pictures of No Performances (Nogaku Zue)" 1898

"Tadanori", a woodblock print from Tsukioka Kôgyo's "Pictures of No Performances (Nogaku Zue)" series, showcases a female performer in a traditional Noh play. The detailed depiction of the performer's elaborate costume, adorned with a multitude of butterflies, exemplifies the rich visual language of Japanese theater. Kôgyo's use of vibrant colors and meticulous detail conveys the dramatic energy and visual splendor of Noh performances, capturing the essence of this unique art form. The print, completed in 1898, showcases the artist's mastery of woodblock printing and his contribution to the revitalization of this traditional art form in the late 19th century.