Onoe Kikugoro als Taira no Tomomori 1895

This woodblock print by Utagawa Kokunimasa depicts the actor Onoe Kikugoro as Taira no Tomomori. The image is constructed using multiple blocks, one for each color, requiring meticulous registration and skillful carving. Look closely at the lines – crisp, yet delicate. This attention to detail speaks to the high level of artistry and labor involved in the production of ukiyo-e prints. The flat planes of color and bold outlines are characteristic of the style, but don’t let that fool you. The material quality of the print invites closer examination of the scene's social significance. The image captures the actor in a dynamic pose, emphasizing the theatricality of kabuki. The armor, ropes, and elaborate makeup all contribute to the character’s imposing presence. While this artwork might seem worlds away from contemporary concerns, it underscores how visual culture, including seemingly ‘low’ or popular forms like prints, were already deeply intertwined with social performance. The world of kabuki was a commercial one, and this print acts as both a record and an advertisement. It prompts us to consider the labor and the economics behind this and other forms of visual representation.