Actor ōtani Hiroji 3rd (paired with Ichikawa Umezō 1st) 18th-19th century

Curator: Here we have Katsukawa Shun'ei's woodblock print, "Actor ōtani Hiroji 3rd (paired with Ichikawa Umezō 1st)," part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: He looks…menacing, almost cornered, wielding that sword with such tension. Curator: This print exemplifies ukiyo-e's focus on the floating world, specifically kabuki theatre. Consider the woodblock's very creation: the carving, the layering of inks, the economics of print production for mass consumption. Editor: It's fascinating how the artist uses red pigment around the eyes, coupled with that exaggerated grimace. The cultural symbolism suggests fury and determination. Curator: Exactly, and it shows the detailed labor involved in producing affordable images of popular actors. The bare feet and simple costume are equally evocative; an interesting combination of artifice and reality. Editor: Absolutely, both the actor and his symbolic role are captured, revealing cultural values around honor and performance. Curator: A confluence of artistic expression and material production, showcasing a unique moment in time. Editor: Indeed, a captivating image full of layers, both artistic and historical.